Ripi, Podere Le
Summary
Podere Le Ripi is a 33-hectare biodynamic estate in Montalcino founded by Francesco Illy in 1998, producing primarily Sangiovese-based wines from vineyards spanning two distinct zones with varying elevations and soil compositions. The family-run winery employs innovative techniques including their experimental Bonsai vineyard planted at 62,500 vines per hectare and practices minimal-intervention winemaking in their unique spiral cellar built according to Golden Ratio principles.
Heritage & Leadership
Podere Le Ripi was established in 1998 when Francesco Illy, a member of the renowned Italian coffee family, purchased his first parcel of land in Montalcino. The estate began with a modest 4 hectares but has since expanded to encompass approximately 33 hectares, of which 12 are dedicated to vineyards. Francesco Illy's background in photography and his family's expertise in coffee informed his methodical approach to viticulture. In 2015, his son Sebastiano Nasello assumed the role of winemaker and general manager, bringing formal oenological training to complement Francesco's vision. The estate's development has been marked by significant investments in both vineyard plantings and infrastructure, including the completion in 2012 of their distinctive cellar built according to the principles of the Golden Ratio.
Vineyards & Wines
Podere Le Ripi's vineyards are strategically positioned in two distinct areas of the Montalcino appellation. The original parcels lie in the eastern zone at approximately 450 meters above sea level, featuring galestro and clay soils that contribute minerality to the wines. The estate later acquired vineyards in the southwestern sector near Castelnuovo dell'Abate, where lower elevations and different soil compositions provide complementary characteristics. Sangiovese dominates the plantings, comprising 95% of the vineyard area, with small amounts of Syrah and other varieties completing the portfolio.
The estate gained technical recognition for its "Bonsai" vineyard experiment, planted in 2000 at the extraordinary density of 62,500 vines per hectare, with vines spaced just 40 cm apart. This project, reaching full production in 2012, was designed to encourage deep root systems and naturally reduced yields. The estate produces several wines, including Brunello di Montalcino DOCG "Lupi e Sirene," Brunello di Montalcino DOCG "Bonsai," Rosso di Montalcino DOC, and the IGT Toscana "Amore e Follia" and "Sogni e Follia."
Philosophy & Practice
Podere Le Ripi follows certified biodynamic agricultural principles, having completed conversion in 2010. The estate maintains a holistic approach that extends beyond the vineyards to the entire property ecosystem, incorporating olive groves, forests, and gardens. Vineyard management emphasizes minimal intervention, with cover crops, natural preparations, and hand harvesting standard across all parcels.
In the cellar, fermentations occur in a combination of concrete tanks and wooden vats using indigenous yeasts. Aging protocols vary by wine: the Brunello expressions mature in large Slavonian oak casks (25-30 hectoliters) for the minimum 24 months required by appellation law, while some IGT wines see French oak barrels. The winery itself represents a technical achievement, built entirely of brick without cement and designed to maintain optimal temperature and humidity naturally. The structure follows the Golden Ratio proportions and spirals into the earth, allowing gravity-flow winemaking across its multiple levels.
Annual production remains intentionally limited at approximately 50,000 bottles, prioritizing site expression over volume. The estate bottles without fining or filtration when conditions permit, and all farming practices adhere to certified biodynamic standards under Demeter certification.