“And I found myself in a land where I had no roots, to plant these roots. I was fortunate because the land was stunning, and as soon as I laid eyes on it, I fell in love.”
Lilia Maria’s agricultural farm explores and blends two distinct yet extraordinarily complementary locations, each rich in natural treasures, time-honored traditions, a profound sense of dedication, and unique geological and geographical features.
The vineyards are the heart of the project, embodying ideals of quality, emotion, and craftsmanship. On one side, Castelnuovo dell’Abate in Montalcino sits atop a hill with stunning views of Monte Amiata, where the Orcia River meets the Ente Stream. On the other, you’ll find the Monte La Guardia area, perched on the northern slopes of Mount Etna, nestled between the Ebrodi and Peloritani mountains and the plains along the Simeto River.
Montalcino
The vineyards in Castelnuovo dell’Abate are divided into three neighboring plots, each with its own distinct characteristics: Vigna Cava, Vigna di Mezzo, and Vigna Grande. These reflect the balance and contrasts of the soil, shaped by the ancient “santa fiora” formation—a millennia-old blend of clay and limestone—and the onyx debris from nearby ancient quarries,
Notably, an old onyx quarry encloses one of the plots (from which it takes its name, Vigna Cava), creating a natural amphitheater that faces east, allowing the first light of morning to pour into the vineyard.
Etna
On the slopes of Etna, century-old bush-trained vines cling to the steep terrain of the “Muntagna,” featuring terraces built with dry stone walls known as “reseca,” recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. These terraces sit between 800 and 850 meters above sea level, on mineral-rich volcanic soil, where the conditions are perfect for grape ripening and maintaining acidity—key attributes that contribute to the fresh and elegant complexity of the wines produced.
