Simone’s story part 2
Since his young age, Simone has been surrounded by wine. His father was passionate, and his collection was rich.
At the age of 14, Simone and his family (especially his aunt Dora, who was like a grandmother to Simone and his brother) decided to enrol him in the Umberto Primo School of Agriculture and Oenology in Alba.
Established in 1881, it is among Italy's oldest and most respected oenology schools.
"This educational institution was strongly supported by the then minister of Public Education of Alba, Michele Coppino, by the Municipality of Alba and the Province of Cuneo who understood the importance of scientific research and education in the viticultural and oenological field, fundamental for the economy of the area.
The reasons that led to its foundation were numerous but essentially attributable to two fundamental aspects:
- know and fight the main vine diseases;
- emancipate winemakers from that centuries-old empiricism which is the enemy of all progress."
For 6 years Simone has been studying
Viticulture and Enology: Emphasizing grape cultivation and wine production.
Agricultural Sciences: Covering modern farming techniques and sustainable practices.
Food Technology: Focusing on food processing and safety.
He has learnt and experimented growing grapes and winemaking surrounded by 10 hectares of vineyards including Dolcetto, Nebbiolo, Barbera, Moscato ect.
2 hours driving from home, Simone was boarding at the “Catholic Seminario” run by priests. A very strict education with tight schedules between school, church, and homework. Not a lot of spare time to muck around, but Simone and his friends always managed to create fun and unforgettable memories.
You can now rent a room at “Il Seminario”
Most of the students of Umberto 1 were sons or daughters of a winery family business, and their career path was pre-written. Simone, on the other hand, had the freedom to go and do what he wanted and so decided to travel, learn English as much as possible away from other Italians.
He signed his first contract at Johner in Masterton in 2014 and arrived in New Zealand with no English. From one opportunity to another, Palliser, Colombo and Pond Paddock he has created his life in Martinborough.
You know the rest of the story…..
Stolen pictures from Palliser Facebook page
