Azienda Agricola Andrea Occhipinti

Lazio, Italy

During his studies in agronomy at the University of Tuscia, Andrea was particularly interested in the rare grape varieties bordering Lake Bolsena. He was so passionate that he decided to make it the subject of his master's thesis. Following his graduation in 2004, he began the reconstruction of some abandoned vine plots at 450 meters altitude off of the largest volcanic lake in Europe, Gradoli. The area is part of the Maremma region (called "Tuscia" in Lazio), about a 15 minute drive from the Tuscan border. Located an hour north of Rome, Lake Bolsena offers a unique microclimate. Combining the particular terroir of volcanic rocks with its philosophy of preserving and promoting local indigenous varietals, Andrea produces traditional wines with innovative effervescence. Today, Andrea works mainly with Aleatico di Gradoli (local aleatico) and Grechetto Rosso. The result is true terroir wines, a pure and natural Lazio appellation.