Cirelli
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Country of Origin: Italy
Location: Teramo
People: Francesco & Michela Cirelli, Owners | Francesco Cirelli, Winemaker
Viticulture: Certified Organic
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Agricola Cirelli is a certified organic farm spanning 23 hectares and located at the border of the Teramo and Pescara provinces in the picturesque Abruzzo countryside, just a 25-minute drive from the Adriatic Sea. At its heart lies a deep commitment to nature and tradition, influencing every aspect of its winemaking. The estate's vineyards flourish alongside olive groves, horticultural crops, and free-range animals, all integrated into a sustainable and harmonious ecosystem.
The farm operates with strict adherence to organic principles, letting nature dictate its rhythm. Crop rotation, organic fertilization, and free-range animal grazing enrich the soil and vines without the need for synthetic chemicals. This holistic approach results in wines that embody purity, balance, and a profound connection to the land.
Francesco Cirelli’s journey into winemaking is rooted in passion and respect for the land. After earning a degree in economics from one of Europe’s leading universities and attending the Italian Navy College, Francesco embarked on a life dedicated to farming in 2003. Inspired by the saying, "Right after God comes the farmer," he purchased land in Abruzzo to pursue organic agriculture as a means of fostering a sustainable relationship with the earth.
Francesco's winemaking philosophy reflects his commitment to minimal intervention. He crafts wines that express the authentic character of his vineyards, allowing the terroir to take center stage. From manual harvesting to natural fermentation with native yeasts, every step of the process emphasizes respect for the environment and the grape. Supported by his wife Michela, Francesco brings to life a portfolio of wines that resonate with purity, elegance, and the essence of organic farming.
"The favorite is the amphora-fermented wines. They are the more artisanal containers. Those are the containers where you are obliged to intervene manually and you can use nothing except for your body. If you have to clean, you have to go inside with your swimming suit and clean the vessel. You cannot use anything else. This makes for a more emotional process. It’s the one that requires more effort. It’s you and the clay vessel, that is all." - Francesco Cirelli
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Grape Collective: Francesco Cirelli Is Walking on the Wild Side in Abruzzo