Cirelli

Amphora Pioneer with Visionary Instinct

Francesco Cirelli remembers exactly the moment in 2011 when he acquired his first three amphorae: vessels holding 1,600 litres, 1,000 litres and 800 litres respectively – terracotta vessels from Impruneta from the traditional Artenova manufactory. He reserves the largest amphorae with the lowest porosity for his white wines, whilst the smaller vessels are partially buried in sand and stone to control temperature during fermentation. This thoughtful approach is particularly evident in his Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC Amphora, which develops an unusual accessibility and finesse through just eight days of maceration.

Biodynamic Cycle with Animal Helpers

On the 22 hectares of Agricola Cirelli, not only vines grow, but also olives, figs, spelt and barley. Francesco has created a complete ecosystem in which geese patrol between the vine rows as natural weed controllers. The winery received its biodynamic certification in 2021, yet Francesco has been working according to these principles since its founding. The clay and limestone soils lie 250 metres above sea level and border the spectacular Calanchi – those eroded limestone slopes that lend the landscape an almost lunar appearance. Whilst other producers in the Abruzzi push the permitted 150 quintals per hectare to the limit, Francesco restricts himself to 40-45 quintals for maximum concentration. His Trebbiano d'Abruzzo impressively demonstrates how this yield reduction leads to extraordinary minerality.

Natural Wine Revolution in a Traditional Region

Francesco belongs to that generation of Italian winemakers who rebelled against the industrial mainstream of their regions around the turn of the millennium. Whilst in Sicily at the same time Arianna Occhipinti pursued similar paths, Francesco revolutionised the Abruzzi with his uncompromising approach to indigenous grape varieties. His Montepulciano interpretation deliberately breaks with regional conventions: instead of months-long maceration for powerful, tannic wines, he focuses on elegance and drinkability. Spontaneous fermentation with wild yeasts, complete avoidance of filtration and fining, and the exclusion of any enzymes characterise his philosophy. The result is wines with authentic terroir expression, which Francesco understands as an ambassador for human connection with his motto "Wine makes people closer".

Glamping Destination with Wine Culture

Agricola Cirelli was awarded Italy's best glamping destination – proof of Francesco's visionary approach that extends beyond pure winemaking. Visitors can stay amongst the amphorae and experience how holistic agriculture functions. The Cerasuolo d'Abruzzo DOC Amphora is created through short skin maceration of Montepulciano and showcases the precise signature of the winemaker in a delicate rosé hue. This combination of winemaking, sustainability and tourism makes Cirelli one of Central Italy's most innovative projects – whilst never forgetting its roots in Abruzzese wine culture.