Story
Podere Aia Vecchia
Massa Marittima · Tuscany · Italy
Since 2008, Podere Aia Vecchia has been the serene retreat for Fabrizio Niccolaini and Patrizia Bartolini. Situated at an altitude of 700 metres in the picturesque Metalliferous Hills, it came to life after the couple spent 20 years producing wine at the Massa Vecchia estate. Deciding to adopt a slower pace of life, they restored an old farmhouse surrounded by oak and hornbeam woods, along with 6 hectares of rich meadows and pastures. In this tranquil environment, Fabrizio and Patrizia raise a few cows and some pigs, aiming to create a self-sufficient and circular agricultural model. Their dedication extends to producing a small quantity of cheese, embodying their vision of a holistic and sustainable farm. The farm embraces the traditional values of Tuscan agriculture, centred around the "podere" – the heart of the farm with stables and rooms for curing meats and cheeses.
“The animals roam freely in the pastures, feeding on abundant plants and hay, promoting a healthy ecosystem.”
In this harmonious environment where land, animals, and humans coexist, the vineyard holds a special place. Fabrizio has taken on the challenge of cultivating half a hectare of Pinot Noir on calcareous soil, striving for the utmost finesse. He uses limestone containers and ages the wine in 60-litre glass demijohns. Each vintage is limited to a batch of 600 bottles, making these wines rare and cherished.
