Apulia, Italy
Masseria Cuturi 1881
Since her arrival, dynamic winemaker Camilla Rossi Chauvenet has been busy breathing new life into this historic property. Maximising the potential of her vineyards remains a top priority, and we are excited about the journey ahead as Camilla goes about her work.
Regarded as the cradle of modern Primitivo, Masseria Cuturi comprises an ancient farm structure that was built on Roman foundations in 1881. That very year, a wealthy landowner called Don Tommaso Schiavoni Tafuri married Countess Sabini di Altamura. The noblewoman introduced some Primitivo cuttings as a dowry, which Don Tommaso planted – the first recorded mention of Primitivo being grown in Manduria. Don Tommaso’s wines surpassed all expectations. His Primitivos were full-bodied and more alcoholic than other Apulian red wines, reflecting the potential of his new vineyards.
Successful recultivation
When the Rossi Chauvenet family bought this historic country property in southern Apulia in 2008, the vines on the estate were in a sorry state. But thanks to many years of growing wine, the family were immediately alive to the property’s potential. The main task for Camilla Rossi Chauvenet was to bring the Primitivo vineyards back to their former glory. On a property encompassing some 300 hectares, there are now 40 hectares planted with Primitivo, Negroamaro and Fiano Minutolo. These vines are farmed organically and hand-harvested, with each plot vinified separately.
Perfect growing conditions for Primitivo
The hot Mediterranean climate, persistent sunshine, and cooling breezes from the nearby sea make an ideal environment for viticulture. Exceptional vineyard soils composed of cretaceous limestone and iron-rich deposits also mean that the estate is able to make wines showing a level of minerality that you would be hard-pushed to find anywhere else around Manduria.
“This place gives you an infinite perspective of development and growth, a sense of omnipotence that truly makes you believe in this land.”
Camilla Rossi Chauvenet
