CRESPAIA MARCHE, ITALY

Crespaia, established in 2011, is the creation of Rossano Sgammini, a passionate producer who is full of energy and ideas, and who cherishes the Marche’s ancient wine-making values and traditions. The picturesque estate is perched among olive trees and vines in the rolling hills near the town of Fano on the Adriatic coast, less than 2 miles from the sea. This proximity to the Adriatic Sea gives the wines unique characteristics. The name “Crespaia” combines the Italian words expressing the rippling of the sea (crespe) and the honest integrity of the farm (aia). After purchasing the 12+ acre estate, Rossano immediately set about replanting vines, restoring and improving the cellar, and improving viticultural practices. Rossano then bought the adjoining property, and in 2014 planted another 12 acres. The total area is now almost 25 acres which surround the ancient church and Villa Bassa of Prelato. The vineyards are worked organically (with official organic certification from 2016 on) and all grapes are hand-harvested in small containers to protect their quality. Rossano is ably assisted by New Zealand oenologist Shayle Lambie-Shaw.