Some places exude an enchanting allure that touches the soul, wrapping it in profound attraction. They captivate you with their natural beauty, reveal traces of history with every step, and offer a deep sense of tranquility that leaves you lingering. These are places on Earth that evoke emotions, fertile grounds nurtured by attitude and talent. Nittardi Winery, nestled in the heart of the Chianti Classico region, is precisely one of these places.
Let us trace the threads of history. As you walk along the dirt road leading to Nittardi, you’ll find yourself surrounded by woods and valleys. Shades of green unfold before you, and atop a hill stands a medieval tower, embedded within the estate’s architectural ensemble.
As early as the 12th century, Benedictine monks settled here. Beyond their religious duties, they cultivated vines in this remote location. By the 16th century, the tower became known as “Nectar Dei.” During this time, the renowned artist Michelangelo Buonarroti discovered the estate while passing through the Chianti region. He was working on fortifications for the Republic of Florence and was so captivated by the breathtaking landscape that, in 1549, during his time at the Sistine Chapel, he purchased the estate.
The wine produced from this land was so exceptional that Michelangelo decided to gift it to Pope Julius II. This gesture was deeply meaningful: while gifting art was customary at the time, Michelangelo chose to present wine, elevating it to an art form. Thus, a profound connection between art and wine was established.
In 1981, historian Stefania Canali and her husband, Peter Femfert—a publisher and gallery owner—were drawn to the estate’s rich history and spirit. Recognizing the intrinsic link between viticulture and art, they decided to preserve this tradition, blending wine, art, and culture. Every year, they invite an artist friend, often a master of modern and contemporary art, to spend time at Nittardi. Here, the artist creates original works to represent their genius, designing labels and packaging for the Nittardi Vigna Doghessa Chianti Classico Casanuova bottles.
Today, Leon Femfert continues this legacy, curating a collection of 78 artworks by world-renowned artists such as Friedensreich Hundertwasser, Mimmo Paladino, Yoko Ono, Günter Grass, Karl Otto Götz, Horst Janssen, and Giuliano Galli.
Art’s presence permeates the estate, particularly along the sculpture garden path that meanders through the vineyards, harmoniously blending nature and art. The garden features over 15 lion sculptures—unique pieces from different eras and materials, symbolizing Nittardi’s emblem—alongside works by international artists such as Miguel Berrocal, Horst Antes, Victor Vasarely, and Raymond Weil.
Canali and Femfert have not only preserved Michelangelo’s legacy but have also deepened its connection to the winery. As a tribute, the first bottle of wine produced from the Tuscan Maremma vineyard was presented to Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis. This wine, aptly named “Nectar Dei,” draws inspiration from the original name of Nittardi’s ancient tower.
