La Massa – Giorgio Primo

Overview

Fattoria La Massa can be found hidden amongst the Chianti Classico hills of Panzano in the prestigious “Conca d’Oro,” (Golden Basin). It was acquired by its passionate owner, Giampaolo Motta, in 1992. Giampaolo, originally from Naples, came to the area in 1989 to follow his dream of making high quality wines. After working in some of the most famous Chianti Classico estates and spending time in Bordeaux, Giampaolo established La Massa with the technical consultation of famed enologist and friend Carlo Ferrini. Since the end 2008, he relies on the advice of renowned Stéphane Derenoncourt for the vineyards and cellar.

La Massa’s vineyards range in altitude from 315 to 460 meters (1,033 to 1,510 feet) above sea level, occupying an area of about 45 hectares (111 acres), of which 27 are planted with vines. As a result of a 10-year research project dedicated to understanding the distinct terroir of the area, a complete re-structuring of the vineyards has been carried out over the past few years, respecting the particular characteristics of the soil, geography and microclimate.

The estate’s main varieties are the classic Tuscan Sangiovese as well as varieties more typical of Bordeaux, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Giampaolo is passionate about the great wines of Bordeaux and is convinced of the magnificent potential that these varieties have in the terroir of La Massa. In fact, since the 2007 vintage, he has decided to eliminate Sangiovese completely from La Massa’s flagship Giorgio Primo IGT blend, resulting in a wine that more fully represents his personality.

La Massa produces two wines: La Massa IGT (predominantly Sangiovese, blended with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot) and the winery’s first wine, Giorgio Primo IGT (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot). Driven by an unremitting pursuit of excellence, Giampaolo’s dedication and enthusiasm continues to be recognized worldwide, receiving accolades for his wines from the most important wine critics and publications.

“La Massa has a long history of generations of people who have worked the unique soils of Panzano to cultivate the noble grapes of Bordeaux. In fact, the history of La Massa goes back to 1490 and the Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes have been here for nearly 400 years. I am dedicated to continuing this rich tradition at La Massa and bringing my own experience and knowledge with rigor and classicism to produce quality wine.” – Giampaolo Motta

Giampaolo Motta