Celebrating the art of winemaking as a profound expression of identity, culture, and unity across the Mediterranean.
On February 6, the iconic Colosseum served as the backdrop for a momentous occasion: the unveiling of Vino dei Popoli (The Wine of the Peoples) and the presentation of the Giardino dei Vitigni Antichi (Ancient Vines Garden) of Torre Melissa. These two projects, deeply intertwined, celebrate the art of winemaking as a profound expression of identity, culture, and unity across the Mediterranean.
Winemaking is not just a craft; it is an art form that embodies complexity, harmony, and beauty. Each bottle of Vino dei Popoli tells a story of ancient traditions, connecting wine to the archaeological and cultural history of the Mediterranean. With its roots in the Giardino dei Vitigni Antichi, this wine is a living testament to the recovery and preservation of historic native grape varieties, which symbolize the rich viticultural heritage of the region.
The Giardino dei Vitigni Antichi, coordinated by Iter Vitis with the support of GAL Kroton, aspires to become a hub for research, conservation, and dissemination of ancient vine varieties. These varieties are carefully cultivated to create a unique symbiosis between past and present, forming a connection to historical vineyard routes across Europe. The logo of Dionysus, designed by the late artists Elio Malena and Alfonso Calabretta, encapsulates the spirit of the project. The artwork and final packaging, completed by the Alios Studio, reflect the themes of abundance, transformation, and conviviality inherent in wine culture.
Vino dei Popoli represents an innovative approach to winemaking, blending grapes from the Giardino dei Vitigni Antichi into a single, symbolic bottle. It is more than a product; it is a cultural statement, uniting the viticultural stories of diverse regions into a harmonious whole. This collective wine production exemplifies the philosophy of Iter Vitis, which sees wine as a bridge for dialogue, a symbol of collective memory, and a celebration of shared heritage.
With these groundbreaking projects, Iter Vitis and GAL Kroton reaffirm their commitment to preserving and showcasing Europe’s diverse wine heritage, transforming viticulture into a powerful narrative that transcends borders, celebrates traditions, and connects humanity.
