Case Vecchie

Monzambano (MN) - LOMBARDY

Case Vecchie is located in the Morainic hills in Monzambano, in the province of Mantova. It is led by young winemaker Paolo Ferri, who has been making wine since 2010, but also honey and olive oil, while growing ancient grains and medicinal plants.

The Morainic Hills range from 100 to 250 metres above sea level and were originally created by the rock debris deposited by the Garda glacier two million years ago. The area is bound by the Po River in the south and Lake Garda in the north. Rolling hills alternate with plateaus, lakes, springs, vineyards and olive groves.

Two hectares of the vineyard were originally planted by Paolo’s father 30 years ago, and divided between Chardonnay, Cabernet, Merlot grapes. At the time these international varieties were planted to satisfy demand from a nearby cooperative. When Paolo took over, he planted an additional parcel of Rondinella. Paolo’s father, now retired, still helps in the vineyard.

Right from the beginning, vines and other crops were cultivated in accordance with organic principles – and in harmony with the many bees living on the farm. Minimal doses of copper and sulphur are applied. The farm is covered in clover and wild herbs to promote biodiversity. Soil composition varies, with stones and gravely soil in the top parts of the vineyard, and more sandy, white and red clay areas in the lower parts.

Grapes are harvested at different times. Some are picked early to retain freshness and keep the alcohol low. Others are picked later to add flavour to the wine. Fermentation is spontaneous and conducted in stainless steel containers without temperature control. Only indigenous yeasts are used. The wines are not filtered, nor fined. The use of sulphur dioxide is kept to an absolute minimum and sometimes not used at all.

About 9000 bottles of wine are made every year. Paolo does things a little different every time, following the season and the vintage, but also experimenting. Most of his wines come in one litre bottles.

The wines of Case Vecchie are fresh and light. They have a joyful character and are intended to be shared any time of the day, any day of the week, with anyone.