For Poggio Antico, the Units of Soil symbolize a new approach to vineyard management. A new way of viewing work in the vineyard, one that can adapt and be modified, Unit by Unit. To understand how Poggio Antico operates according to the Units of Soil, we interviewed Pier Giuseppe D’Alessandro, General Manager of Poggio Antico


Pier Giuseppe, how do the Units of Soil represent a new view of the vineyard?

Until recently, the point of reference used by Poggio Antico were the single vineyards that were identified through a specific toponym and a precise geographical reference.

Meticulous soil analyses carried out in recent years revealed that, within the same vineyard, there existed “portions” that are hugely different from each other with regards to the type of soil, vegetative development and maturation period. These are the Units of Soil: “plots” found within the same vineyard and that need to be cultivated, managed and harvested in a different way because they bring out diverse characteristics.


What does thinking based on Units of Soil actually mean?

It means understanding, analyzing and planning targeted interventions while considering each Unit of Soil as a distinct “microcosm”. It implies choosing the right amount of fertilization; following the vegetative development of each Unit while trying to carry out suitable and targeted operations; and constantly and continuously monitoring grape maturation in every Unit of Soil in order to identify the perfect time for harvest in a progressive and timely manner.


What is the agronomic objective of this plot-by-plot differentiation?

If we were to use an analogy, think of the Units of Soil as musical instruments. The conductor can only create a true symphony if each instrument is played by an expert who can harmonize his talent with that of the orchestra. We obtain the symphony of a blend from the right “music” played by each Unit of Soil.


What does this new philosophy entail?

It means more time spent in the vineyard and carefully listening to what it says, as well as an increasingly active “participation” in the vegetative and qualitative development of each Unit of Soil. Processing periods tend to be longer because they are performed plot by plot. Attention is not focused on what one wants to do with the vineyard, but on what the vineyard asks. After all, the Units of Soil enable us to be of service to the vines and their needs: if they are healthy, they will be more generous.