Mauro Vannucci

Mauro Vannucci, the visionary behind the Piaggia winery, has left an indelible mark on the world of Italian wine, particularly within the Carmignano Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin (DOCG). His journey into winemaking began in the mid-1970s, a testament to his foresight and passion for viticulture, nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany.

Situated in the commune of Poggio a Caiano, in the province of Prato and a stone’s throw from Florence, the Piaggia farm benefits from an exceptional geographical advantage. It was this unique location, straddling the communes of Poggio a Caiano and Carmignano, that caught Vannucci’s eye. He was captivated by the land’s excellent exposure to sunlight and its permeable, dry, and clayey soil. Vannucci was convinced these elements were the perfect recipe for producing a distinguished Carmignano wine.

In 1991, the fruits of Vannucci’s labor were realized with the first release of the Piaggia Carmignano Riserva DOCG. This marked the beginning of a flourishing journey that intertwined his growing passion for winemaking with an unwavering dedication to quality and innovation. Over the years, Vannucci’s pioneering spirit drove him to expand his venture. In the early 1990s, he seized the opportunity to acquire an additional 15 hectares in one of the appellation’s prime areas. This land, a natural basin mere hundreds of meters from the heart of Carmignano, not only offered a spectacular view of the city of Florence but also embodied the ideal conditions for viticulture, reinforcing Piaggia’s foundation for producing premium wines.

Today, the Piaggia property spans approximately 25 hectares, with 15 dedicated to vine cultivation. This expansion reflects not only Vannucci’s commitment to his craft but also his vision of creating a legacy that transcends generations. This legacy is now in the hands of his daughter, Silvia, who has embraced the mantle of leadership with the same passion and vigor that her father demonstrated. Under her stewardship, the winery continues to uphold the principles of quality, innovation, and respect for the land that Mauro Vannucci instilled from its inception.

Mauro Vannucci’s story is one of inspiration, embodying the essence of Italian winemaking tradition while pushing the boundaries to achieve excellence. His ability to see the potential in the land, to nurture it, and to innovate within the framework of tradition has set Piaggia apart in the competitive world of wine. Vannucci’s journey reflects a deep understanding of the symbiotic relationship between the terroir and the vine, a philosophy that has guided Piaggia to numerous accolades and recognition within the wine community.

As we reflect on Mauro Vannucci’s contributions to the world of wine, it’s clear that his legacy extends beyond the bottles of Carmignano that bear the Piaggia label. His vision, passion, and dedication have not only elevated the stature of Carmignano wines on the global stage but have also inspired a new generation of winemakers to pursue excellence with integrity and respect for the land. In the rolling hills of Tuscany, among the vineyards that capture the essence of this rich wine region, the spirit of Mauro Vannucci lives on, a beacon for those who seek to marry tradition with innovation in the art of winemaking.