Tenute Tozzi
The story of Tenute Tozzi is a testament to the enduring power of family passion and the pursuit of excellence in winemaking. It began with Franco Tozzi, a man whose love for wine was more than a hobby; it was a way of life. In the rolling Romagna hills of Casola Valsenio, his hometown nestled near the Tuscan border, Franco crafted wines for his closest companions, a tradition that would eventually blossom into a legacy.
Franco Tozzi's vision materialized in 2014 with the planting of eight hectares of vineyards, cultivating both regional grapes like Albana and Sangiovese, as well as international varieties. The first harvest in 2017 resulted in the 2019 bottling of the inaugural vintage, with labels named after his grandchildren, such as the Albana secco "Tantalilli." Now, with Virginia, the eldest granddaughter, at the helm, the vineyards are entering a new phase, aiming to elevate the Tozzi wines to a wider audience.
The vineyards of Casola Valsenio, perched at nearly 500 meters above sea level, border the UNESCO-recognized "Vena del Gesso Romagnola" Regional Park, a striking gypsum ridge. The sandy loam soil of these slopes, coupled with sustainable farming practices—integrated pest management, green manure, and composting—nurtures the vines and reflects a deep respect for the land. Furthering this commitment to natural bounty, olive trees were planted on the farm’s sloping sites, yielding certified organic, DOP extra virgin olive oil, with the first harvest in 2022.
In late 2018, a new chapter unfolded when the Tozzi family forged a friendship with Paolo Caciorgna, a skilled winemaker, leading to the discovery of an enchanting vineyard on the northern slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily. Captivated by the land's beauty and potential, they embarked on a new venture, establishing Tenute Tozzi in Contrada Moganazzi and Contrada Terremorte. Here, they produce three distinct wines: a crisp white from Carricante grapes and two nuanced reds from Nerello Mascalese. The red wines are differentiated by their aging process; one matures for 2-6 months in barriques, while the other rests for a full 12, each expressing the unique terroir of Etna's volcanic slopes.
Tenute Tozzi, therefore, is more than a winery; it is a story of intergenerational passion, a blend of regional tradition and global influence, and a dedication to sustainable, high-quality production. From the serene hills of Romagna to the dramatic slopes of Etna, the Tozzi family continues to honor Franco’s vision, crafting wines that reflect the soul of their land and the warmth of their heritage.
