Experience the Soul of Vasto: We Went Behind the Bottle with the Winemakers at Fontefico
Forget the rushed tourist paths. The true heart of Italy, the kind that truly captivates and endures, is found in the quiet, passionate moments shared with local experts.
I recently had the distinct pleasure of heading back to one of my favorite places: Cantina Fontefico, a true gem right here in Vasto on Abruzzo’s stunning Costa dei Trabocchi.
As many of our past guests know, Vasto isn’t just a place we visit; it’s my home and our welcoming base for most of our Abruzzo tours.
Returning to this beautiful spot where the Altieri family lives and works for an exclusive video interview felt like coming home in the deepest sense.
What an unexpected gift that day was! Despite it being November, the sun was bright, warm, and utterly perfect. I spent the entire day with my friends, the brilliant Altieri brothers, Nicola and Emanuele, soaking up that perfect autumn light. (My jacket was jealous, but I didn’t mind.)
The panorama was unbelievable: the Adriatic Sea shimmering on one side, and the proud, snow-dusted peaks of the Maiella and Apennines visible on the other.
This view, surrounded by vineyards still holding onto their magnificent, autumnal colors is the very soul of Abruzzo, and it’s the secret flavor that runs through the Altieri wines.
We decided to sit down and capture our conversation: the history, the humor, and the incredible passion for Abruzzo culture, just for you. As we mention in the video, this is the story you won’t find anywhere else. Unless you break into my notebook. Please don’t.
Ready to join us in the Vasto vineyard and hear the full story? Watch the exclusive interview below!
Click Here to Watch the Full Interview with the Altieri Brothers!
The “Rascal” and the Gentleman: Tasting Abruzzo’s Character
In the video, Nicola and Emanuele share far more than winemaking facts; they offer captivating, intimate stories behind their signature native wines. Trust me, these wines carry the personality of the Altieri family and their Vasto land!
Montepulciano: Forte e Gentile: Like the regional spirit itself, their Montepulciano ‘Titinge Riserva’ is the definition of “strong but gentle.” We explore how the sea-mountain climate shapes this powerful red, giving it a depth that speaks to Abruzzo’s robust character. (Think of it as the wise, slightly dramatic uncle of all red wines.)
Pecorino: The Beloved Rebel: You will hear the hilarious origin story of why their Pecorino white wine is lovingly called ‘La Canaglia’ (The Rascal)! This vineyard is so “spiteful” it gives low yields, but its defiance rewards them with a crisp, mineral-rich wine that is simply irresistible. (If you have a rebellious streak, this is your perfect drinking companion.)
These are liquid narratives, reflecting the sea, the mountains, and the dedication (and occasional exasperation!) of the hands that tend them, right here in Vasto.
The Cerasuolo Memory That Started It All
One of the most touching moments came when Nicola shared his earliest, most profound memory. A simple, powerful childhood image that set his destiny:
“I was two years old, looking at my grandfather drinking a glass of Cerasuolo. Then I decided to be a winemaker one day.”
Finding these deep, personal connections is what Italia Sweet Italia is all about. Their Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo, that gorgeous, flexible pink wine, perfectly captures this connection to the land and family tradition. (It’s basically destiny in a glass.)
Join the Harvest, Taste the Tradition: Your Next Step
If this story has stirred your curiosity and sparked a desire to experience the warm, authentic hospitality of Abruzzo for yourself, I invite you to go beyond the screen.
Our annual late-September tour celebrating the grape harvest and Patron Saint festivities offer you the chance to live this story right here in Vasto.
Imagine joining the vendemmia (grape harvest) and sharing a family-style meal right in the heart of this spectacular winery.
I guarantee the view is better than any postcard.
Inspired to explore the real Abruzzo?
Visit our website to discover our exclusive, small-group tours and experience an authentic journey through these wonderful regions!
P.S. For those who just can’t wait to taste that Abruzzo sunshine, you might want to sample La Canaglia (if you enjoy a challenge), the dependable Fossimatto, or the powerful Titinge Montepulciano (which definitely left an impression on me). The Altieri brothers ship their wines directly from Vasto!
You can order your bottles directly from the Altieri brothers here: fontefico.it
Ciao for now,
Fabrizio
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