The Bolgheri DOC wine region is the birthplace of Super Tuscans, Italian red wines made from international rather than native grapes. Although the quality and popularity of these wines have soared internationally since the red and Rosato wines achieved DOC status in 1994, the region remains a relatively undiscovered gem, even among wine enthusiasts.
Like other notable wineries in the Bolgheri region, Argentiera isn’t on one of the busy tourist routes but is well worth a pilgrimage not only for its exceptional wines but also for its spectacular landscapes.
The winery is located in the hills near the tiny hamlet of Donoratico, in the southernmost part of the prestigious wine region, between the small town of Castagneto Carducci (named after the famous Italian poet) and Italy’s western coastline.
For those seeking a respite from the hordes of tourists who flock to nearby cities like Florence, Pisa, and Lucca, a day trip, overnight stay, or more in the area provides the perfect escape. The drive from each of these cities to Donoratico takes approximately 1-¾ hours from Florence, 1-¼ hours from Pisa, and 1-½ hours from Lucca. Cruise passengers can also arrange a shore excursion from the port of Livorno.
The Integral Connection Between The Wines and The Land
Upon arrival, visitors will be captivated by the views of the picturesque 85-hectare Argentiera estate on ancient pastures, which includes both forests and a breathtaking amphitheater-like terrace overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Argentiera owner Turnauer and winemaker Carrara
Argentiera
When the current owner, Austrian businessman and entrepreneur Stanislaus Turnauer, discovered the property, he was so taken with its beauty and the lure of the Tuscan lifestyle that he decided to make it his home.
A passionate and knowledgeable wine connoisseur, Turnauer purchased the historic wine estate and moved his family to Florence. Over the past nine years under his helm, the winery has been reimagined and revitalized with modern technology and winemaking techniques while simultaneously respecting the land and its history. The winery now produces elegant and expressive Bolgheri wines that are highly rated by critics and exported to 50 countries.
Argentiera’s experienced and talented winemaker, Niccolo Carrara, has wisely taken advantage of the land’s unique topography, soil composition, and microclimates, which vary as one moves away from the sea and toward the gently sloping hillside.
This unusual terroir has allowed the winery to produce wines with four identities, each strongly connected to where they are grown, a characteristic common among Bolgheri wines. Calm sea breezes, diurnal temperature changes, afternoon sun, and the mirror effect of the sea all contribute to the grapes’ quality.
Argentiera Bolgheri Superiore
Argentiera/Omnia Photo
The grapes cultivated include Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Syrah (used for Rosé), and Vermentino. The winery focuses primarily on bold red wines, but also produces a small amount of easy-to-drink whites made from the Vermentino grapes grown in the sandy soil closest to the sea, protected by an umbrella formed by the maritime pine forest.
Renowned for their exceptional freshness, minerality, and remarkable aging potential, the best plots in the vineyard (which sit at one of the highest altitudes in the Bogheri area) are reserved for the flagship Argentiera wines. These wines are a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes with a small amount of Cabernet Franc.
Wine Tourism at Argentiera
A tasting in the Argentiera Enoteca
Argentiera
The Argentiera winery (Tenuta Argentiera) welcomes visitors between April and October. Tours begin in the Enoteca, located in a restored, ancient farmhouse. Visitors can learn about the wines through images, guided tastings, cellar tours, vineyard experiences, and pairings with local food products.
Argentiera also offers opportunities to book private lunches in the Cellar and to purchase the estate wines, including older vintages, in the contemporary Wine Shop (reservations are required).
Exploring the Bolgheri DOC Wine Region
The optimal time to visit the Bolgheri region is spring and fall because there will be fewer crowds and greater availability at hotels and resorts along the Tuscan seaside, which tend to be busy during the summer months.
For those who do decide to visit in summer, Argentiera is close to the seaside towns of Marina di Bibbona and San Vincenzo on the Tuscan Riviera. The estate is 30 minutes from Piombino, considered the gateway to Elba, where people can board a boat or ferry to visit the largest island in the Tuscan archipelago.
Because Bolgheri wineries are fairly close to one another, getting from place to place by car is easy. Visitors can plan an itinerary that includes other iconic wineries in the region and spend time in nearby small towns and hamlets that offer a more authentic taste of Italy than large, over-touristed cities.
The charming medieval town of Castagneto Carducci is only about 10 minutes from Argentiera by car. Visitors can walk along castle walls, enjoy the views, or wander the cobblestone streets lined with shops and local restaurants to savor traditional Tuscan cuisine paired with the area’s wines.
The Viale dei Cipressi is a famous road almost five kilometers long, leading to the historical center of Bolgheri.
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The pedestrian-friendly village of Bolgheri is only 15-20 minutes from Argentiera. Visitors often enter through the impressive Viale dei Cipressi, an avenue lined with awe-inspiring Cypress trees dating back to the 18th century.
Argentiera truly offers a unique experience for wine lovers and slow travelers alike. The beauty of the Tuscan coast and the rich history and culture of the land blend seamlessly with the elegance of Bolgheri wines, creating a lasting memory for all who visit.
Read more about Bolgheri appellation at the Bolgheri and Bolgheri Sassicaia Consortium website.