Vitiarium
The Vitiarium is an experimental project, begun as far back as 1978, in collaboration with the Dipartimento di Ortoflorofrutticoltura of the University of Florence, that has as its goal the classification of grapevine germplasm, or the genetic makeup of the vine.
As Tuscany began to see its rich store of native varieties decline, it became urgent to gather and classify the more than 270 grapes in the various areas of the region. Those varieties were later planted in an experimental vineyard at San Felice. A protocol was created that would ensure the careful analysis that was necessary to determine the winemaking potential of the most promising varieties growing in the “conservation vineyard.” Wine was then produced from these grapes in the cellar at San Felice. The experimental vineyard in which these vines were planted was named the Vitiarium, or collection of vines, and the individual varieties Viziati. The amount of Tuscan genetic material (germplasm) collected in the Vitiarium is unique in the world for its variety and size (over 2 hectares). Over the course of the following years, about 30 varieties were selected for a second round of studies. Those varieties were chosen after several cycles of microvinificaton had demonstrated that they exhibited valuable analytic and sensory qualities. Varieties that emerged in this manner included Abrusco, Abrostine and Pugnitello. The latter in particular has shown, over this period of study, that it possesses the distinctive characteristics that will make it truly a champion among the wines of Tuscany.
