On a recent trip to Giglio Island, just 11 miles off the Tuscan coast, Layne Randolph discovered a rich tapestry of winemaking shaped by perseverance.
Here, the Ansonica vines cling tenaciously to the island’s steep, rocky landscapes, and a new generation of passionate winemakers is breathing fresh life into this time-honored craft.
The Vinicultural Legacy of Giglio Island
The island is steeped in a vinicultural history that dates back to ancient civilizations.
Its stone terraces, thought to have originated during the Stone Age, stand as enduring symbols of the island’s longstanding legacy in winemaking.
This heritage thrived during both Etruscan and Roman times, reaching new heights when the Medici family of Florence took interest in producing Ansonica wine.
Heroic Viticulture in Practice
Today, a devoted group of winemakers passionately cultivates Ansonica on the island, engaging in what is known as ‘viticultura eroica’—or heroic viticulture.
This phrase perfectly encapsulates their commitment, showcasing their determination to thrive against the island’s tough environmental conditions.
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This unwavering dedication not only pays homage to the island’s rich culinary history but also paves the way for its bright future in the world of wine.
Source: Decanter
