Gianfranco Soldera
Gianfranco Soldera was born on April 30, 1937, in Treviso, Italy. Before venturing into winemaking, he had a successful career in the insurance industry. However, his passion for wine led him to purchase the Case Basse estate in Montalcino in 1972. The estate had a long history of winemaking, dating back to the 1970s.
Soldera was a strong advocate for traditional winemaking practices, and he believed in minimal intervention in both the vineyard and the cellar. He implemented organic and biodynamic farming methods, avoiding the use of chemical pesticides and herbicides. His dedication to the land and the environment reflected in the character of his wines.
The flagship wine of the Case Basse estate was Brunello di Montalcino, a renowned and prestigious Italian red wine made exclusively from Sangiovese grapes. Soldera's approach to winemaking involved extended maceration periods and aging in large Slavonian oak casks, resulting in wines known for their complexity, elegance, and ability to age gracefully.
Gianfranco Soldera passed away on February 16, 2019, at the age of 81. His contributions to the world of wine, particularly in Montalcino, were significant, and his wines continue to be highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. The Case Basse estate remains a symbol of dedication to tradition, quality, and the artistry of winemaking.