Wine has been growing on the hills of Decugnano dei Barbi since at least 1212, according to historical records in Orvieto. But it was in 1973 that Claudio Barbi rediscovered this abandoned land, bringing it back to life with new vineyards and a renewed vision. Just a few years later, in 1978, he introduced the first wines, including an Orvieto Classico, a red, and Umbria’s first Metodo Classico sparkling wine. By 1981, he had made history again, creating Pourriture Noble, Italy’s first noble rot wine.

Today, his son Enzo Barbi carries on the family legacy with the same passion and dedication, producing some of the finest Orvieto Classico DOC wines you’ll find. When we visited last autumn, we were completely floored—not just by the breathtaking landscape, with its stone villas, cypress trees, and a charming hilltop chapel, but also by the warmth and hospitality of everyone we met.

Inside the chapel, where Enzo hosts intimate tastings, we admired art collected by his father—until we had a timeloop moment. Hanging on the southern wall was a portrait that looked uncannily like our own Lars—only aged ten years, or perhaps painted 300 years ago… Coincidence? Maybe. But we like to think fate led us to this special place, these incredible wines, and the great friends we’ve made here.