The Italian oenologist Franco Bernabei has passed away at the age of 74 after a long illness. Born in Abano Terme (Padua), Bernabei was considered one of the pioneers of the qualitative renewal of Italian viticulture and an outstanding interpreter of the Sangiovese grape variety.

After studying agriculture in Padua and graduating as an oenologist, Bernabei began his career at the Ruffino winery. Later, he became self-employed as a consultant, focusing on Tuscany, where he accompanied many top wineries for decades. His goal was to highlight the potential of indigenous grape varieties and their regions of origin.

Some of the most famous wines closely associated with his name include the Bucerchiale from Fattoria di Selvapiana, the Flaccianello della Pieve from Fontodi, and the Fontalloro from Fèlsina. These wines exemplify Bernabei's philosophy of expressing terroir, grape variety, and the character of a winery authentically.

In 1993, Bernabei, together with his wife Daniela, founded the consulting company Enoproject in Greve in Chianti, which is now run by their sons Marco and Matteo. In 2000, he was awarded the "Oscar del Vino" by the Italian Sommelier Association AIS. Throughout his career, he advised more than 30 wineries and was among the most influential oenologists in the country.

The Italian Oenologists Association Assoenologi honored Bernabei as a key figure in the quality development of Italian viticulture. His professional competence, innovative spirit, and respect for the respective growing regions have shaped generations of oenologists.

(ru – Image: Bernabei)