Medici Ermete

Terroir summary:

Emilia-Romagna is a region historically synonymous with quality food and wine. The terroir here is deeply respected, with the winery maintaining a strong bond with the land. Medici Ermete is located in the province of Reggio Emilia, a low-lying viticultural area characterised by flat plains at approximately 90 metres above sea level. The estate’s vineyards are planted across a mix of clay and sandy soils, providing both structure and drainage, well suited to the cultivation of Lambrusco varieties. The climate is broadly continental, with hot summers, cold winters and moderate rainfall, supporting steady ripening and the preservation of natural acidity. This combination of soil and climate underpins the freshness, balance and aromatic clarity typical of high-quality Lambrusco from the region.

Heritage:

Medici Ermete was founded in 1890 by Remigio Medici, who expanded his family’s existing hospitality and agricultural holdings into winemaking, building on vineyards already in their possession. Over the course of five generations, the estate has remained family-owned, evolving from a local producer into one of the most influential names in Lambrusco. A key turning point came under the fourth generation, when Alberto Medici introduced significant vineyard investment and modern training systems, fundamentally improving grape quality and redefining the style of Lambrusco. Today, the fifth generation continues this progression, maintaining continuity of ownership while expanding the winery’s international profile and reinforcing its position in premium markets.

Philosophy:

Medici Ermete’s philosophy is centred on full control of the production chain, from vineyard to final wine, with a focus on elevating Lambrusco through precise viticulture and modern winemaking. The estate cultivates multiple Lambrusco varieties—including Salamino, Marani, Sorbara, Ancellotta and Grasparossa—selected to reflect the diversity of the region. Vineyard management prioritises low yields and careful canopy control, with widespread adoption of spurred cordon training to improve concentration and consistency. Approximately 80 hectares are farmed organically, reflecting a long-term commitment to sustainable viticulture. In the cellar, a combination of contemporary techniques and updated facilities supports the production of clean, balanced and varietally expressive wines, with an emphasis on freshness, stability and precision.

People:

Medici Ermete remains fully family-owned, now led by the fifth generation, with Alessandro Medici guiding the estate’s strategic direction and international development. Alongside him, Alberto Medici (fourth generation), together with his brother Pierluigi Medici, played a pivotal role in modernising the winery, particularly through vineyard investment and the introduction of spurred cordon training, which significantly elevated grape quality and helped redefine Lambrusco. Alessandra Medici, also part of the family, oversees hospitality and contributes to the estate’s visitor experience, reinforcing the connection between the winery and the wider gastronomic culture of Emilia-Romagna.

Beyond the Vine:

Beyond wine production, Medici Ermete has a longstanding connection to the wider gastronomic culture of Emilia-Romagna. The estate also produces Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Reggio Emilia PDO, aged and refined through dedicated facilities that reflect the same attention to detail applied in the winery. This integration of wine and food production reflects the region’s broader agricultural heritage, positioning the estate within a holistic framework of quality food and wine culture. Ongoing environmental initiatives, including vineyard management practices and material recycling, support a considered approach to long-term sustainability across the estate.