“Because I’m curious, I taste a lot of wines. Because I don’t come from a wine making family, I created my own taste by tasting and discovery. I don’t have any limits.”
We’re in great company with Faye Lottero, owner of her family estate, Fattoria Lavacchio, a place full of history between centuries-old vines, olive trees and Tuscan Dolce Vita.
Originally built in 1700, the Lottero family made the estate their home in 1978 and after enjoying her childhood here, Faye returned in 1999 to lead the way for the biodynamic agriturismo that it is today, known for its excellence in wine, olive oil and “Organic Lifestyle.”
In this episode and in celebration of International Women’s Day, Faye shares about the importance of relationships - from her love of her family to her service in the community, from her care for the land to the curiosity of her mind, from a respect for tradition to a vision for innovation.
Top Takeaways
[1:30] From pursuing a career in law to returning home to the family farm, what inspired Faye to welcome guests onto their land and learn with them along the way.
[6:30] While agricultural tasks are often stereotyped as jobs for men, Faye enjoys her days out in the vineyards with many other women on her team.
[8:20] Being given the freedom to pursue her own dreams, Faye is inspired to raise her children with that same mindset.
[15:50] How the symbol of a Cedar Tree, representing the longevity of a dynasty for noble Italian families, now stands for the past, present and future stewardship of Fattoria Lavacchio.
[26:30] Whether guests pick out a picnic spread in the bottega, sit down to a multi course dinner and wine pairing, or take part in a cooking class, expect to experience “Tuscany on a plate.”
[29:15] In collaboration with other local ladies, master distiller Priscilla Occhipinti and botanist Mara Fiesolani, Faye created a vermouth made of botanicals from her biodynamic fields aptly named Bouquet.
[31:30] How truffle hunting with her dog taught Faye to truly appreciate the constant change in nature and the importance of biodynamic farming in recreating life in our land.
[35:45] How creativity, curiosity and no experience led Faye to create the first DOCG Chianti wine without sulfites.
[45:00] Faye explains how collaboration over competition is key to the growth of the entire community.
[58:40] “In Italy you live to eat” and this is why most of the traditions for the Lottero family happen around the table.
Notable Mentions
- Cafe Capriccio Tuscan Culinary Tours
- Castello del Trebbio
- Women in Wine at Agricola Foradori & Agricola Occhipinti
