What makes Guado al Melo’s approach stand out is its focus on site expression within a region dominated by wineries going after big red blends. The estate works to highlight Bolgheri’s coastal identity rather than just its power. Vermentino becomes a kind of counterpoint to the area’s Cabernet-led reputation.
Bolgheri sits on the coastal plain of western Tuscany in the province of Livorno, with vineyards running from near-sea-level up into gently rising hills. The climate is strongly Mediterranean: long, sunny growing seasons with relatively low rainfall, and cooling breezes from the Tyrrhenian Sea. This maritime influence is key, moderating heat, and preserving acidity even in warm vintages. Vermentino thrives here because it naturally prefers coastal conditions. Bolgheri’s mix of sand, clay, and stony alluvial deposits contributes both drainage (important for concentration) and a mineral edge in the finished wine.
The name L'Airone (The Heron) is inspired by the small white herons often seen moving lightly and gracefully through the vineyards. Michele Scienza, Guado al Melo’s oenologist, says that grace and lightness are precisely the characteristics of this wine, as well as a way he tries to approach life. The winery is run by the Scienza family, who purchased this estate in 1998. However, there’s a long history of grape production on this estate dating back to at least the 1800s. Rather than treating Vermentino as a trendy alternative white, producers, like the Scienza family, see this grape as part of the history of coastal Tuscany.
The 2024 vintage was characterized by a cool and rainy spring, followed by a warm and well-ventilated summer. Harvest took place between September 9 and October 1, with fine weather occasionally interspersed with a few brief rains. The grapes were hand-harvested and went through spontaneous fermentation before aging on fine lees in stainless steel for four months with regular stirring.
Tasting Note
Guado al Melo Toscana’s 2024 L’Airone opens with tropical fruit, peach, and grapefruit notes followed by hints of tea and pastry. Smooth, medium-bodied, and highly expressive. The wine is framed by its excellent natural acidity and pronounced minerality, making this a dream with food.
Food Pairing
We suggest a zucchini and ricotta tart to go along with Guado al Melo Toscana’s 2024 L’Airone. This Vermentino’s bright acidity and mineral edge will balance the ricotta’s creamy texture while highlighting the delicate sweetness of summer zucchini. Alternatively, since we’re heading into the west coast’s summer seafood, Dungeness crab or spot prawn rolls will absolutely shine with this wine.