From Barbaresco to Tuscany, our Italian road trip has been an incredible journey through time, tradition, and exceptional winemaking.

Piedmont and Tuscany 

Day 1 - Barbaresco: Bruno Rocca
Our Italian adventure begins in the northeast, where we were privileged to visit Barbaresco’s iconic Bruno Rocca estate – the first Barbaresco producer to join the Great Domaines family. This family-run estate, managed by Bruno, his daughter Luisa, and son Francesco, spans 15 hectares across five vineyards, producing some of the finest Barbaresco wines, coveted worldwide.

Days 1-3: Exploring Barbaresco & Barolo
After Bruno Rocca, we visited the renowned Gaja in Barbaresco, where Angelo Gaja shared stories of his time in South Africa, visiting vineyards like Rust en Vrede and Delaire. We tasted with Giovanni Gaja, but Angelo stopped by to chat!
The following day took us to Barolo, where Fabio Burlotto welcomed and we got taste what are nothing short of ethereal Barolos, near the Cannubi vineyard. The family’s label dates back to 1932, demonstrating their deep-rooted wine heritage.
On day three we stopped at Luciano Sandrone and then Giuseppe Rinaldi. While we missed Barbara Sandrone, Luca made sure we felt like family. The highlight? Tasting the rare 2021 Barolo Bussia at Rinaldi – just the third vintage of this wine that they have produced and a mere 5,000 bottles.

Day 4: Tuscan Wine Royalty - Antinori & Fèlsina
Our journey through Tuscany brought us to the heart of winemaking royalty at Marchesi Antinori. With a 600-year winemaking legacy, the Antinori family’s Tignanello and Solaia vineyards are a testament to their visionary approach to Tuscan wine. Derek even walked through the iconic vineyards, making the history come alive.
At Fèlsina, we stepped into the Vin Santo barrel room, where the wines age for seven years in small 100-litre barrels. Welcomed by Giovanni Poggiali, we had a memorable exchange, with wine talk quickly turning into rugby banter, adding a fun twist to the visit.

Days 6-7: Montalcino & Bolgheri
Our Tuscan exploration continued with a visit to Salvioni in Montalcino. Nestled in woodland, Salvioni's 4-hectare vineyard is tended by hand, producing outstanding wines with meticulous attention to detail.
Next, we visited Il Poggione, where we toured the expansive farm with Alessandro Bindocci. From olive trees to cows and even a South African-inspired braai spot, the farm was a delight.
At Biondi-Santi, we paused for reflection by Franco Biondi Santi’s desk, soaking in the history of one of Italy’s most iconic estates.
Finally, at Soldera, we experienced winemaking perfection under the meticulous care of Monica and Paolo Soldera, while Gaja’s Ca’Marcanda in Bolgheri offered a perfect closing note to our Italian journey. 

That’s a wrap on Wayne and Derek’s travels in September. For more information on any of the wines mentioned in this travel diary, feel free to contact us.