In the world of viticulture, every gesture and choice carries profound meaning. Let's continue the story of our vineyard evolution with Marco Simonit, to delve deeper into his approach, thoughts, and collaboration with Poggio Antico.
Marco, how did you choose to collaborate with Poggio Antico?
Throughout my career, I've encountered many great terroirs and skilled producers. However, what ultimately drives my decision on where to spend my time is the human aspect. Having the possibility to choose is a privilege I nurtured alongside an awareness, over time, of the importance of a connection of ideas above all else.
Behind a grand project, even in a wonderful district, there must be a very strong human bond. I had previous contacts with Pippo, whom I held in high regard; then I met Marcel, the owner, with whom I immediately felt the same connection. He told me that the most important thing for him at Poggio Antico is the opportunity to create something that goes beyond business, beyond profit goals: a passion project, a desire to build something beautiful and lasting, with a style of its own and an unmistakable signature developed over time. Seeing all our work in the vineyard as a lasting construction, an act of foresight rather than profit, is what resonates with me - and it's how I like to work.
What have you found up here, on the highest hills of Montalcino?
Poggio Antico is truly one of the most intriguing places in Montalcino; it has great potential for growth and, above all, recognizability. Over these years, I've followed Pippo's work, and the change has been very visible; if you know how to observe the plants, they reveal themselves and tell their story. Here, the history of the recent years is a testament to a willingness to work towards an ever-closer connection with the terroir.
How is the collaboration structured? What are the next steps and objectives?
One of my mottos is "The important thing is to do well; there's no limit to improvement", and here at Poggio Antico, we all share the same mindset! The goal is initially to study the situation thoroughly, observe the vineyard, and identify its personality, understanding the context, rainfall, temperatures, and brightness. We're in the early stages, but the work already done is substantial and provides an excellent starting point. One of the vineyards we've selected for our studies is the one near the entrance, which will be increasingly set with an identity of its own, a true gateway to Poggio Antico. From here, the intention is to structure plants with a dynamic rather than dogmatic architecture, allowing the vines to adapt and evolve over time. This means, for example, a non-standardized canopy management – rather, individual actions tailored to the specific needs of the vineyard, plant by plant, studying their age and available growing space.
Actions like these require specific expertise.
Absolutely. The vineyard is a complex environment where every action requires deep understanding and constant commitment. To ensure maximum quality and sustainability over time, we intend, with the Poggio Antico team, to provide comprehensive and professional training to those working in the vineyard. This will not only make them more competent in facing daily challenges but will also transform them into true custodians of the land, aware of its needs and value. The innovative – and potentially transformative – intention is to establish, with the Poggio Antico team, detailed operational instructions for each vineyard, in a kind of SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) that will ensure a method for vineyard management that is more constant in its flexibility and will allow the design of a voice and style that are increasingly identifiable and timeless.