Our Philosophy
We are committed to producing great-tasting, balanced natural wines in a way that respects our terroir and preserves and replenishes our land. We take seriously our role as custodians of our extraordinary property in the heart of Chianti. Not only to uphold the long traditions of wine production, but also to care for the land in a way that benefits the environment and future generations.
By employing organic and biodynamic processes in the vineyard and in the cantina, we protect the health of our land as well as the health of those who drink our wines. Wine consumers who want to empower themselves with wine knowledge will be happy to know that our wines have no added chemicals and very low levels of sulfites. We are proud to produce authentic and memorable wines.
Neal & Jan Dempsey, Owners
Inspired by Jan's love affair with Italy, we purchased Podere Erica in 2005 with the goal of enjoying and sharing with others the true Italian way of life - La Dolce Vita. Finding the perfect property in Tuscany proved a great challenge! Over the course of 3 years, we made several trips a year from San Francisco where we live. Finally, after viewing over 40 properties with almost as many real estate agents, we found, through a friend, the perfect property. Great location, gorgeous views, spacious farmhouse, plenty of land, grape vines, and olive trees. In 2009, we completed an extensive remodel of the house, providing modern amenities while maintaining its rustic farmhouse character.
In addition to our efforts to create a perfect vacation spot, producing great wine also requires much investment and attention. In 2009, we hired Marco Giordano to manage the farm and the winemaking. With passion and fortitude, Marco is realizing our dream to produce fantastic natural wines that are true to the terroir of Podere Erica.
Marco Giordano, Enologo Winemaker
Marco received his graduate degree from the University of Florence in Viticulture and Enology. He also completed a course at APAB Biodynamic Viticulture of Florence (Demeter collaborator) and a course in modern biodynamic viticulture.
He has participated in various apprenticeships at local wineries during his studies and after graduation. He worked at a nearby vineyard, Poggio al Sole, performing tasks in both the cellar and the vineyard and gained first-hand knowledge of organic vineyard management by leasing land to grow his own grapes.
At Podere Erica, he has the opportunity to pursue his passion for natural wine production and apply his knowledge and experiences to create high-quality wines in a natural and organic manner from the vineyard to the cellar.
Pierpaolo Chelo, Sales & Marketing
After completing his bachelor's degree in Economics at the University of Florence and a post-graduate masters in Tourism Management at the Ca' Foscari University of Venice, his professional experience began in aviation for an important European regional airline.
A new job opportunity followed at the Chamber of Commerce of Florence promotion agency. In recent years, Pierpaolo has focused his professional development in the wine sector having attended a training course in International Wine Marketing and completing the level 3 professional course as Sommelier AIS. On the weekends, he leads wine tours in Tuscany for a local tour operator.
Pierpaolo represents Podere Erica at important wine tasting events and seeks out fine restaurants and wine bars in Tuscany to partner with us.