Ariento 2021 Massa Vecchia

Ariento 2021: White IGT Toscana

Overview

The Ariento 2021 is an elegant and complex white wine from Massa Vecchia, produced using natural methods, without chemical inputs. It is a blend of Vermentino, Malvasia Bianca di Candia, and Trebbiano, authentically expressing the Maremma Toscana terroir. Carefully crafted with respect for the natural grape cycle, this wine stands out for its aromatic freshness and balanced structure, offering a refined and harmonious tasting experience.

Wine History

Ariento comes from vineyards located in the Colline Metallifere, where altitude, microclimate, and soil composition give the grapes unique characteristics. The wine was created to highlight local grape varieties in a natural context while respecting Massa Vecchia’s tradition. Each vintage is meticulously monitored to produce healthy, mature grapes that faithfully convey the terroir’s complexity and character in the bottle.

Vineyard Philosophy

The grapes of Vermentino, Malvasia Bianca di Candia, and Trebbiano are cultivated without chemicals or invasive treatments, following natural viticulture principles. This approach allows the plants to grow in harmony with soil and climate, preserving biodiversity and ecological balance. The goal is to obtain grapes that fully express their varietal and territorial character, resulting in a healthy and authentic wine true to Massa Vecchia’s sustainable philosophy.

Winery Approach

In the winery, Ariento 2021 undergoes maceration in open, truncated chestnut vats, followed by 1.5 years of aging in oak barrels and 6 months of bottle refinement. Produced according to the natural philosophy, without chemicals or invasive interventions, the wine develops its aromatic and gustatory complexity harmoniously. The result is a structured, elegant white wine with freshness, minerality, and depth. Contains sulfites.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Bright golden yellow with amber reflections, intense and luminous.

• Nose: Aromas of white flowers, ripe yellow-fleshed fruit, and toasted almond, with light hints of sweet spices.

• Palate: Full and enveloping, well-structured, balanced between freshness and softness, with a persistent and harmonious finish.

Pairing

Excellent with fish, shellfish, delicate risottos, and roasted vegetables. Also perfect with refined appetizers and fresh cheeses. Ideal for slow tastings and elegant lunches.

Technical Sheet

• Variety: Vermentino, Malvasia Bianca di Candia, Trebbiano

• Alcohol: 13%

• Volume: 0.75 L

• Aging: 1.5 years in oak barrels + 6 months in bottle

• Serving Temperature: 10-12°C

• Contains sulfites

Massa Vecchia Winery: Natural Excellence in Alta Maremma

History of Massa Vecchia Winery

The Massa Vecchia farm is located in the heart of the Colline Metallifere, in the municipality of Massa Marittima, Alta Maremma, Tuscany. Founded in 1985 by Fabrizio Niccolaini, the winery initially used family vineyards to sell grapes and bulk wine, later evolving into its own wine production. In 2009, it became an agricultural company, managed until 2018 by Fabrizio’s daughter Francesca Sfondrini and her partners. Since 2019, Fabrizio has resumed management together with his daughter Tosca and a trusted team. The estate covers about 24 hectares, with 6 hectares of vineyards divided into three main plots located between 200 and 500 meters above sea level, each with unique characteristics and grape varieties.

Vineyard Philosophy

The production of natural wines is at the heart of Massa Vecchia’s philosophy. This means cultivating vineyards without chemicals, respecting the pedoclimatic context where the vines grow. The aim is to allow the terroir to fully express itself in the wine, without artificial interventions. Avoiding chemicals ensures authentic wines that reflect the land while supporting sustainable cultivation, biodiversity, and soil health. This approach allows the vines to grow in natural balance, respecting plant cycles and the richness of the surrounding environment.

Winery Approach

In the winery, Massa Vecchia follows the same natural philosophy, avoiding invasive technologies and chemical manipulations. Fermentation and maturation occur harmoniously, respecting the natural biochemical processes of the grapes. This approach results in healthy, genuine wines with aromatic complexity, a direct expression of the territory. The winery produces about 18,000 bottles per year, with an average yield of 40 quintals per hectare, emphasizing grape varieties such as Sangiovese, Vermentino, Aleatico, Malvasia Nera, Merlot, and Malvasia Bianca di Candia.

Innovation and Territory

Over the years, Massa Vecchia has adapted to climate changes and the natural aging of its vineyards. In 2021, the historic La Querciola vineyard was renewed, replacing Sangiovese with Aleatico, Vermentino, and Malvasia Nera, preserving soil vitality and wine quality. The winery combines tradition and innovation, focusing on limited, high-quality productions. Besides wines, the estate also produces extra virgin olive oil from Moraiolo and Leccino olives, confirming its connection to the land and pursuit of sustainable excellence. All wines contain sulfites.