Lorieri – Podere Scurtarola

Lorieri – Podere Scurtarola is a historic and highly respected natural wine producer in the Colli Apuani sub-region of Tuscany, Italy. The winery is known for its dedication to "heroic viticulture" and its crucial role in reviving ancient, native grape varieties.

History and Location

• Location: The winery is situated in the hills of the Colli Apuani, near the city of Massa in the province of Massa-Carrara. The vineyards are on steep, terraced slopes overlooking the sea, in a unique microclimate influenced by the nearby Apennine mountains and the Mediterranean. This difficult terrain requires all vineyard work to be done by hand, a practice known as heroic viticulture.

• Family Tradition: The Lorieri family has been farming this land for over 160 years. The current owner, Pier Paolo Lorieri, has dedicated his life to preserving and revitalizing the traditional viticulture of the region. He is a key figure in the revival of the Vermentino Nero and Massaretta grapes.

Winemaking Philosophy

Lorieri's philosophy is rooted in a deep respect for the land and a traditional, hands-on approach to winemaking.

• Organic Viticulture: The vineyards are farmed organically, with a focus on a healthy, living ecosystem. They avoid the use of herbicides and other chemicals, relying on the natural environment to keep the vines healthy.

• Indigenous Grapes: The winery is a champion of the native grapes of the Colli Apuani, including Vermentino, Vermentino Nero, Massaretta, Albarola, Trebbiano, and Ciliegiolo. Pier Paolo Lorieri is particularly known for his extensive research and work in reviving the Vermentino Nero, a rare local clone that was nearly extinct.

• Minimal Intervention: In the cellar, their approach is to guide the wine with as little intervention as possible.

  • Spontaneous Fermentation: All wines are fermented using indigenous yeasts.

  • Aging: The wines are aged in a variety of vessels, including stainless steel and old oak barrels, with a focus on allowing the wine to develop complexity without the influence of new wood.

  • Low Sulfur: The use of sulfur is kept to a minimum.

• Traditional Blends: The winery often uses traditional blends of grapes from their vineyards to create wines that are a true expression of the local terroir.

Notable Wines

Lorieri – Podere Scurtarola produces a range of wines that are authentic and unique expressions of their region.

• Vermentino Nero: The flagship wine, made from the rare Vermentino Nero grape. It is a light-bodied, elegant red wine with a distinct spicy and savory character. It's a true expression of the heroic viticulture of the area.

• Massaretta: A red wine made from the native Massaretta grape. It is known for its deep color, rustic character, and a unique blend of red fruit and earthy notes.

• Vermentino Bianco: A signature white wine from the Vermentino grape, known for its bright acidity, minerality, and a savory, herbal finish that reflects the nearby sea.

• Scurtarola Rosso: A red wine that is a classic blend of local varieties, including Sangiovese, Massaretta, and Ciliegiolo. It is a complex and food-friendly red.