The Fucci family have cultivated grapes at the foot of Mount Vulture in Basilicata since the 60’s. They own 6 hectares of vines which surround the family home, at the highest part of Contrada Solagna of Titolo. Previously they only vinified their grapes for personal consumption and the rest was sold on to local vignerons. It wasn’t until the family were considering selling the estate vineyards that their daughter Elena (who originally had very different plans for her future), unable to bare the idea that the land she grew up on, the vineyards she played in as a child would be sold on to someone else, decided to step in and take over. Thrilled with her decision, the family gave Elena their full support. In fact, for Elena’s father Salvatore, this had long been a pipe dream and so was delighted to get involved, utilizing the viticultural knowledge that he had learned from his father, who learned from his father before him. Elena attended University to study Enology, which she graduated from in 2000. With her newfound knowledge and skills, she returned to her beloved home to start a new chapter for her and her family as vignerons.

This unique, fertile land made up of volcanic soils, rich in minerals, which makes for ideal conditions for growing quality Aglianico. Planted at around 600 meters above sea level, this late ripening variety benefits from hot summers, cold winters and high winds. The Fucci family vines range between 50 and 70 years old, some of the oldest of the area, they are dedicated exclusively to growing Aglianico. Sustainability has been an important part of Elena’s ethos since the very beginning. They farm according to organic practices, for which they are certified. Throughout the production process they strive to recycle as much as they can, from rainwater, to packaging, to vine prunings. The eco-friendly winery was built using recovered and recycled materials and they use a solar powered system and natural air conditioning to reduce energy consumption and ensure low environmental impact.

Elena has transformed her family estate for generations to come and her wines have become known as some of the best examples of this area. We fell in love with their incredible refinement and purity but also the ability to contain the exuberance of Aglianico, which though noble, can be wild and difficult to manage. Simply put, these are the highest expressions of what is widely regarded as one of the very best Italian indigenous grapes and the star of the mountains of Southern Italy.