text Marzia Morganti Tempestini
Italy’s Best Sommelier
He shot to the top in only five months’ time and won the title of Italy’s Best AIS Sommelier in 2018
The Florentine Simone Loguercio studied architecture, but he then decided that he’d much rather deal with wine. A sommelier working for Konnubio restaurant in Florence, Simone won the title of Italy’s Best AIS Sommelier in 2018.
When did you develop a passion for sommellerie?
Around 2012. I was working behind a bar counter and I was curious about whatever I laid hands on, including wine, so I signed up for an AIS Sommelier course. From then on, it was love all the way.
Three wineries worth visiting near Florence?
Castello di Monsanto, one of the world’s most important historical archives; Antinori in the Chianti Classico area, a space which seems to blend into the vineyards and surrounding hills; Fattoria di Selvapiana, to learn all about Chianti Rùfina, a journey through history.
Two labels of Chianti and two of Brunello, the most traditional and the most innovative?
Le Ragnaie by Riccardo Campinoti for tradition and Podere Giodo by Carlo Ferrini for innovation. Castell’in Villa by Contessa Coralìa Pignatelli for tradition and Jurij Fiore’s and his daughter’s micro wine production in Lamole for innovation.
The world’s best red according to Italy’s best sommelier?
A lot of wines deserve the top spot, but I love Sangiovese, which has also sentimental value to me. So, I’ll say Riecine by Riecine. Pure elegance.
