Andrea Occhipinti

Andrea Occhipinti has made it his mission to preserve the local grape varieties, which is why he consistently only works with the native varieties Aleatico di Gradoli and Greghetto (also: Grechetto) Rosso, aiming to prove that their preservation is worthwhile. 

Aleatico is a semi-aromatic red grape variety originally descended from Moscato bianco, and also appears to be related to Sangiovese. It is considered one of the oldest grape varieties in Italy. Although technically the equivalent to Sangiovese, Grechetto has developed separately in the region for so long that it has its own special characteristics.

That is why Andrea prefers to continue to address it by the traditional name of Greghetto rosso. The grape variety is far less floral than Aleatico, but somewhat denser and more structured. 

Andrea Occhipinti does not age any of his wines in wood. Instead, he works with earthenware tanks, stainless steel and amphorae of various sizes. Cultivation is organic and sulphur is only used in small quantities and only when bottling.