Vallepicciola, nestled in the heart of Chianti Classico, has built a reputation for producing wines that masterfully balance tradition and innovation. Alessandro Cellai, the winery's winemaker and general manager, has played a pivotal role in shaping its philosophy, focusing on quality, sustainability, and a deep respect for the terroir. Under his guidance, Vallepicciola has introduced innovative winemaking techniques while maintaining a strong commitment to the region's rich heritage. In this interview with Sommeliers Choice Awards, Cellai shares insights into Vallepicciola’s journey, its dedication to both craftsmanship and sustainability, and the future of the winery in a competitive global market.

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Vallepicciola has become renowned for its unique approach to winemaking. Can you tell us about the winery’s journey and how it has evolved over the years?

Vallepicciola’s winemaking philosophy under my supervision has always been rooted in an unwavering commitment to quality, starting in the vineyard. Every variety is carefully managed with meticulous attention to detail to ensure it reaches its fullest potential. In the cellar, every step of the winemaking process is carried out with the utmost sensitivity, striving to achieve the perfect harmony between the terroir, the intrinsic character of the grapes, and my personal vision as a winemaker.

Your wines reflect a beautiful balance between tradition and innovation. How do you ensure that the rich heritage of Chianti Classico is maintained while also embracing modern techniques?

The key lies in approaching every aspect of winemaking with great sensitivity and meticulous attention to detail.

When it comes to blending international varietals like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon with traditional Sangiovese, what’s the thought process behind these decisions? How do you achieve a balance that resonates with both local and international wine drinkers?

The first and most important step is having a clear vision of what we want to express through the wine and the blend. Each variety must be treated as a protagonist, not just a supporting element, ensuring that its character shines through. Achieving balance comes from deep knowledge of the vines, respect for their individual traits, and a refined sensitivity throughout the winemaking process. By carefully harmonizing these elements, we create wines that resonate with both local and international palates, offering a seamless integration of tradition and global appeal.

Also read: Hidden Gems: Exploring Lesser-Known Grape Varietals for the Modern Beverage Professional

Image: Alessandro Cellai at Vallepicciola’s winery

Can you walk us through your winemaking process? What are the key aspects of your approach that you believe set Vallepicciola wines apart in the marketplace?

At Vallepicciola, our winemaking process is driven by three fundamental pillars: the expression of our terroir, the authenticity of each grape variety, and my personal oenological vision, which reflects my philosophy and passion for winemaking. Every decision, from vineyard management to cellar techniques, is made with the goal of achieving a perfect balance between these elements. This harmony is what sets our wines apart in the global market, making them distinctive, authentic, and deeply expressive of both tradition and innovation.

Sustainability is an increasingly important consideration for wine producers today. How does Vallepicciola incorporate sustainable practices into its vineyard management and winemaking processes?

At Vallepicciola, sustainability is at the core of everything we do. Our commitment is so strong that four years ago, we obtained the VIVA certification, which mandates adherence to sustainable practices across all aspects of production, starting from the vineyard. We carefully manage our resources, minimize environmental impact, and ensure that every step of the winemaking process aligns with this philosophy. Looking to the future, I firmly believe that sustainability is not just an option—it is the only viable path forward for responsible and high-quality winemaking.

Innovation seems to be central to your winemaking philosophy. Are there any recent technological or winemaking innovations you’ve introduced that have had a noticeable impact on the wines you produce?

One of our most recent innovations is the selection and use of indigenous yeasts, developed in collaboration with a leading biotechnology company. We have carefully identified and isolated yeasts native to our grape varieties, allowing us to inoculate them into the must during fermentation. This approach ensures the utmost purity and authenticity in our wines, enhancing their true expression of terroir while maintaining consistency and quality. By embracing this technology, we reinforce our commitment to both innovation and tradition, crafting wines that are distinctly Vallepicciola.

Image: Alessandro Cellai taste testing a Vallepicciola wine

The global wine market is incredibly competitive, yet Vallepicciola’s wines are consistently recognized. What do you think sets your wines apart when it comes to both quality and appeal to wine buyers and sommeliers?

Competition in the global wine market should be seen as a source of inspiration—an opportunity to remain dynamic, responsive, and continuously refine our craft. The unique expression of our unique terroir, the authenticity of each grape variety, and my personal oenological vision, which reflects my philosophy and passion for winemaking, are the three essential elements that set Vallepicciola apart. This distinctive combination resonates with wine buyers and sommeliers worldwide, making our wines not just high in quality but also compelling and memorable in any market.

When selecting wines for restaurants or retail, what key characteristics should sommeliers and wine buyers look for in Vallepicciola’s portfolio?

When selecting wines from Vallepicciola, sommeliers and wine buyers should focus on three defining characteristics: the expression of our terroir, the authenticity of each grape variety, and the unique vision I bring as a winemaker. These elements are the foundation of our wines, creating a sense of place, balance, and personality in every bottle. This philosophy was instilled in me by my mentor, Giacomo Tachis, whose influence continues to shape my approach to winemaking, ensuring that each wine reflects both tradition and individual craftsmanship.

Also read: Why Buyers Choose Sustainable Wines: Insights from Michael Hoefling on Growing Demand

Your wines are known for their versatility. Do you have any favorite food pairings for your wines, especially in fine dining settings or with modern menus?

I believe that every wine in our portfolio has an ideal pairing, as each is crafted with balance and depth to complement a variety of dishes. If I had to highlight one, I would choose our Vallepicciola Rosso Grand Cru Sangiovese. Its rich structure and elegant complexity make it an exceptional match for slow-cooked red meats, allowing its deep flavors to shine while enhancing the dish’s richness. Whether in fine dining settings or modern culinary pairings, our wines are designed to elevate the gastronomic experience.

Looking at the future of Vallepicciola, what exciting developments do you foresee in the next few years, either in terms of new wine releases or growth in international markets?

Vallepicciola is experiencing rapid growth, both within Italy and internationally. We are confident that we have the necessary foundations to continue expanding in a sustainable and structured manner. However, we remain deeply attuned to the evolving needs of the market, allowing us to stay agile and responsive to new opportunities. Looking ahead, we are excited to further enhance our presence globally, potentially introducing new wine releases that reflect our commitment to innovation, quality, and a deeper connection to the terroir.

Finally, as the industry continues to evolve, how do you see the role of wineries like Vallepicciola in shaping the future of Chianti Classico and Italian wines globally?

Chianti Classico is a wine with a rich history and strong global recognition, and I believe its future lies in celebrating and enhancing its heritage while staying true to the principles we’ve discussed—respecting the terroir, the grape varieties, and the winemaker's vision. As wineries like Vallepicciola continue to innovate while honoring tradition, we play an important role in ensuring that Chianti Classico and other Italian wines remain relevant, respected, and appreciated on the global stage. By maintaining this balance, we can help shape the future of Italian wines in the ever-evolving marketplace.

Header image sourced from Vallepicciola 

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