Cataldo Calabretta

Cataldo Calabretta, a fourth-generation grape grower and winemaker, released his first signature wine, Cirò Rosso Classico Superiore DOC, in 2012. The wine is made naturally with the native Gaglioppo variety grown on traditional alberello vines, and is renowned for its excellence. After studying oenology in Milan and working at various vineyards from 2000-2008, Cataldo returned home to Cirò Marina to renovate the family cellar and redefine the wines. The Calabretta family's cellar is located beneath their house in the port town, and has a rich winemaking tradition that dates back to the Georgians, the Byzantines, and Magna Grecian. Originally known as Ypsicron, the town's name was later shortened to Xirò, and eventually became known as Cirò.