Elevating Sicilian Wines: Grégoire’s Bold New Vision

You’ve got to check out how Grégoire Desforges is shaking things up at Baglio di Pianetto! His passion for high-altitude wines is infectious!

A Fresh Approach to Elevating Wines

When we talk about wines, it’s not just about sipping a glass. It’s a story, a connection to the land, and the passion of the people behind it. This is where Grégoire Desforges comes into play as the newly appointed president of Baglio di Pianetto. His vision is nothing short of transformative, focusing on high-altitude vineyards that promise unexpected elegance and freshness in every bottle. I remember my first encounter with a high-altitude wine—its crispness left me astounded! Grégoire is set to take us on this journey, emphasizing sustainable practices while redefining Sicilian winemaking.

The High-Altitude Project

Grégoire, born in 1989 and raised among vineyards, moved from Paris to Santa Cristina Gela with a mission: to enhance his grandfather’s legacy. He’s passionate about organic viticulture—a trend that has gained momentum since Baglio di Pianetto received its certification in 2011. As he puts it, "The altitude allows us to produce wines with unexpected elegance that satisfy increasingly aware consumers." It’s fascinating how height can influence flavor profiles!

In 2024, Baglio di Pianetto will shift focus from their Noto and Pachino vineyards to concentrate exclusively on Santa Cristina Gela and Piana degli Albanesi. This decision underscores their commitment to quality over quantity. It reminds me of when I had to let go of mediocre wines in my own collection—sometimes you have to prune the less fruitful branches for new growth.

Shaping the Future: A New Industrial Plan

With 106 hectares under cultivation and an impressive production of 650,000 bottles in 2024, Baglio di Pianetto is ready for change. Under the guidance of CEO Dante Bonacina, who brings years of expertise from Ca’ del Bosco, they’re rethinking their product portfolio and packaging. They aim for each wine to tell a story reflective of their new brand identity.

The challenge ahead isn’t just about producing exquisite wines; it’s also about improving profitability and optimizing resources. As Bonacina explains, they are undergoing a radical restructuring—what he calls a "pruning"—to cut losses and refocus efforts on higher-value outputs. I can’t help but admire this brave approach; sometimes drastic measures yield the best fruits.

The Value Challenge: Exporting Excellence

As they embark on this journey towards sustainability and quality enhancement, Baglio di Pianetto faces the pressing challenge of value improvement amidst increasing global competition. Currently exporting 18% of its total production primarily to Germany, the USA, and Switzerland, they are looking to increase these numbers significantly.

The focus will not only be on creating exceptional wines but also ensuring that each bottle aligns with environmentally friendly practices throughout production and distribution processes. This dual approach is what makes great brands stand out today—they don’t just sell products; they sell stories rooted in responsible practices.

What’s Next? An Exciting Horizon

As I reflect on these changes at Baglio di Pianetto under Grégoire’s leadership, I’m genuinely excited for what lies ahead. With innovative strategies being implemented and a strong commitment to sustainability paired with personal dedication from leadership—there’s no telling how far this winery can go!

FAQ Section:

• What makes high-altitude wines unique? High-altitude wines tend to have greater acidity and enhanced flavor profiles due to cooler temperatures during ripening.
• Is sustainability important in winemaking? Absolutely! Sustainable practices not only protect our environment but also enhance the quality of wines produced.
• How can I learn more about Sicilian wines? Exploring local wineries or taking part in wine-tasting events can provide insights into regional varieties.

Photo by Andre Morales Kalamar on Unsplash