La MassaTuscany, Italy

La Massa is a distinguished winery located in the heart of Tuscany, specifically in the Chianti Classico region. Founded in 1992 by Giovanni Manetti, La Massa has swiftly established itself as a prominent player in the realm of fine Italian wines, renowned for its innovative approach and commitment to excellence.

The Vision of Giovanni Manetti

Giovanni Manetti, an entrepreneur with a deep passion for wine, embarked on a journey to create a winery that would blend traditional Tuscan winemaking with modern techniques. His vision was to produce wines that not only respected the region's heritage but also showcased a unique, contemporary style. This ambition led to the establishment of La Massa, which quickly garnered attention for its exceptional quality and distinctive character.

Terroir and Vineyard Management of La Massa:

La Massa’s vineyards are situated in the prestigious Chianti Classico region, an area renowned for its rich history and ideal conditions for growing Sangiovese grapes. The estate covers approximately 70 hectares, with a significant portion dedicated to Sangiovese, alongside other varietals like Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.

The estate benefits from a diverse terroir, characterised by well-drained, clay-limestone soils and a favourable microclimate. These factors contribute to the complexity and depth of La Massa’s wines. The vineyard’s elevation and orientation ensure optimal sunlight and airflow, which are crucial for producing high-quality grapes.

In managing the vineyards, La Massa employs a combination of traditional and innovative practices. The estate follows sustainable farming methods, focusing on maintaining soil health and promoting biodiversity. This approach not only supports the environment but also enhances the quality of the grapes, ensuring that each vintage reflects the true essence of the terroir.

Winemaking Philosophy of La Massa:

At La Massa, winemaking is a blend of tradition and innovation. The estate’s approach is characterised by a commitment to quality and a respect for the uniqueness of each vintage. The grapes are carefully selected and undergo a meticulous fermentation process in temperature-controlled tanks. This is followed by aging in a combination of French oak barrels and stainless steel, which imparts complexity while preserving the freshness and purity of the fruit.

One of La Massa’s notable practices is the use of a variety of oak barrels, which allows for greater control over the wine’s development. The estate also focuses on minimal intervention in the winemaking process, ensuring that the wines authentically express the character of their origin.

Wines produced at La Massa:

• La Massa IGT: This flagship wine is a blend of Sangiovese, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s known for its rich, complex flavours, combining notes of dark fruit, spice, and earthy undertones. The wine exhibits excellent balance and a long, elegant finish, making it a standout example of modern Tuscan winemaking.

• Poggio al Lupo: Another highly regarded wine from La Massa, Poggio al Lupo is a single-vineyard expression that showcases the estate’s dedication to quality. It offers a refined bouquet of ripe berries, tobacco, and hints of vanilla, with a structured palate and a persistent finish.

• Le Stèle: This wine is crafted from the estate’s best Sangiovese grapes and is aged for an extended period in oak. Le Stèle is celebrated for its depth, complexity, and ability to age gracefully, offering a harmonious blend of fruit, spice, and savoury notes.