Valpolicella Ripasso DOC Superiore “Marchesa Mariabella” 2022

Massimago Winery: A Modern Expression of Valpolicella

Massimago began as a small-scale project, evolving from a simple garage setup into a fully operational winery capable of experimenting with micro-vinifications and blending techniques. This approach allows for precise expression of the vineyard’s potential.

In 2017, the winery expanded its production and aging facilities, optimizing processes while maintaining a focus on quality. Gravity is used to transfer wine naturally between fermentation and storage areas, reducing the need for mechanical intervention. Aging takes place in two separate cellars: one dedicated to barriques and tonneaux, and another beneath the historic villa, where the most structured wines mature.

Each year, Massimago collaborates with the Oenology departments of the Universities of Milan and Conegliano (Padua), pushing forward research on winemaking techniques while minimizing the use of sulfites.

Valpolicella: A Unique Landscape
Located in the Mezzane Valley, Massimago is part of a rugged and agricultural stretch of eastern Valpolicella, close to Lessinia Natural Park and the medieval Soave Castle. The valley’s past as a seabed has shaped its soils, which vary with elevation, contributing to the character of the wines.

The estate spans 28 hectares, with vineyards positioned between 80 and 350 meters above sea level, facing southwest for optimal sunlight. Years of experience and research have led to the identification of 13 distinct vineyard parcels, each vinified separately to maximize their individual qualities. The surrounding forests and valleys create a natural barrier, making organic cultivation possible without external interference.

Sustainability in Practice
Environmental responsibility is integrated into every aspect of Massimago’s work. The winery focuses on:
- Preserving and restoring the natural ecosystem through green manure practices, waste recycling, and forest conservation.
- Organic viticulture with minimal environmental impact, using manual grass cutting and integrated pest control.
- Aging grapes in a Fruttaio designed with natural airflow, inspired by Japanese techniques, eliminating the need for artificial climate control.
- Harnessing sustainable energy with solar panels and self-sufficient water management.

Soil Composition & Winemaking Tradition
The varied soil structure at Massimago plays a crucial role in shaping the wines:
- Red clay, rich in organic matter, provides structure.
- White limestone, light and floury, contributes to freshness and minerality.
- Marl, porous and mixed with quartz and limestone, ensures proper drainage.

Massimago follows the Appassimento method, a tradition of drying grapes before fermentation that defines Valpolicella’s most important wines. This delicate process depends on seasonal conditions and requires careful selection of perfectly ripe grapes at harvest.

Innovative Architecture for Traditional Methods
The Fruttaio, where grapes are dried, was built with both function and sustainability in mind. Designed for continuous airflow, it prevents humidity buildup and allows gradual temperature shifts. Its outer structure, made with recycled wood, blends into the landscape while respecting the region’s architectural heritage.

Harvest & Connection to Nature
Every year, guests take part in Massimago’s harvest, adding personal messages to the Fruttaio’s walls as a gesture of goodwill for the grapes’ drying process. This tradition brings together visitors from different backgrounds, creating a collective moment of appreciation for the wine’s long journey from vineyard to bottle.

The Name & Its Meaning
Massimago derives from the Latin "Maximum Agium," referring to the highest expression of well-being. The estate has been in the Cracco family since 1883, passing through generations before being reimagined in 2003 as both a winery and a place of hospitality.

A Winery Led by Vision & Innovation
Massimago is guided by Camilla Rossi Chauvenet, whose leadership has shaped its identity. With deep expertise in viticulture, she has steered the winery toward a balance of tradition and modernity, producing Amarone with elegance and character.

Camilla describes Massimago as a creative space, where ideas take shape and evolve alongside nature. Over the years, she has learned from both challenges and successes, ensuring that the winery grows at its own rhythm.

Core Values
- Precision & Patience – Limited production, carefully selected grapes, and rigorous attention to detail.
- Authenticity – A direct expression of the land and its history, with each vintage offering something unique.
- Sustainability – Every choice, from vineyard management to packaging, aligns with a long-term vision for environmental responsibility.
- Innovation – A fresh approach to communicating wine, connecting with a modern audience while respecting the slow pace of nature.
- Hospitality – A belief in learning through connection, creating opportunities for shared moments around wine.

Massimago continues to evolve, staying true to its origins while looking toward the future.