Stefano Legnani

Stefano Legnani is a natural wine producer based in Badia, Sarzana, in Liguria. Previously working in insurance, he shifted into winemaking, driven by a passion for natural farming and expressive wines. His project is modest in size but rich in conviction and detail.

Origins & Vision

  • Originally from Bologna, Stefano made the move to Liguria (Sarzana) after developing a deep interest in wine, especially natural wine.

  • His vineyards are small: about two hectares under vine in Badia.

  • Stefano is part of the natural wine community and follows a philosophy that prioritizes environmental balance, soil health, and viticulture free of synthetic chemicals.

Vineyard Practices & Winemaking

  • His viticulture avoids systemic synthetic inputs. The only treatments used are copper and sulfur, in limited and controlled amounts.

  • He uses cover crops (green manure), mulch, and organic matter to maintain soil fertility, as well as leveraging earthworms and natural soil biota.

  • Harvest is done by hand. Grapes are picked when fully ripe, with decisions guided by tasting, observation, and natural indicators such as insect activity.

  • In the cellar, Stefano uses spontaneous fermentations with indigenous yeasts. Skin contact (maceration) is used for certain wines. Filtration and clarification are avoided. Sulphur additions are minimal. Temperature control is kept low-intervention.

Wines & Style

  • He produces several distinct wines, notably Bamboo Road, Ponte di Toi, and Il Loup Garou. Each has its own story, method, and expression.

  • His whites are often expressive and mineral, with strong connection to the Ligurian seaside climate. Some wines are macerated or made with skin contact to give greater texture and depth.

  • He is well-regarded internationally (especially in Japan) among enthusiasts of natural wine, for wines that are elegant yet bold, respecting both grape and ground.

Character & Values

  • Stefano’s approach is intentional, unhurried, respectful of nature rather than bending it to trends. He treats the vineyard as a living system.

  • Quality over quantity: small scale allows close attention to detail, from vine health to ripeness and winemaking choices.

  • Respect for tradition, terroir, and authenticity are central. He works to let the land and grape speak, rather than imposing style.

 

Contact Details:

  • Producer: Stefano Legnani

  • Email: info@wineyou.it (as listed by a distributor)

  • Phone: +39 388 634 2562 (as listed by a distributor)