Lo Stagnone – Italian wine masters revive tradition and landscape

Three outstanding personalities from the Italian wine scene – Pietro Russo, Gabriele Gorelli and Andrea Lonardi – have launched an ambitious project to transform the Stagnone Lagoon near Marsala, one of the most picturesque nature reserves in Europe, into a first-class wine tourism destination.

Their project „SaltWest“ combines the restoration of historic vineyards with the sustainable use of the region’s rich cultural and landscape resources.

An untapped gem with potential for world-class tourism

The Stagnone Lagoon, known for its historic salt pans, extensive marshlands and breathtaking sunsets, has extraordinary potential.

Despite its unique features, this region has so far received little tourism development. The aim of „SaltWest“ is to enhance the area not only economically, but also ecologically and culturally by establishing it as a luxury wine tourism destination.

Strengthening the connection between winemaking and territory

The project focuses on the acquisition and revitalization of historic vineyards by the three Italian Masters of Wine. Pietro Russo, one of the few Italians with this prestigious title, sees the region’s potential to become the „new Douro Valley“ – a Portuguese model for the combination of winemaking and exclusive tourism.

Russo emphasizes:

„Marsala and the Stagnone have a unique appeal that needs to be rediscovered and promoted – something that the English recognized centuries ago.“

By focusing on quality, innovative marketing and a stronger connection with the region’s traditions, Marsala is to be revitalized as a globally known wine brand.

Inspiration from successful international models

„SaltWest“ draws its vision from proven examples from other regions. The Douro Valley in Portugal, where winemaking transformed a rural region into a luxury destination, and the Maule Valley in Chile, which excels in sustainable restoration initiatives, serve as blueprints. Andrea Lonardi explains that the Stagnone has similar conditions to learn from these models while also forging its own path.

Local community as key to success

A key aspect of the project is the active involvement of the local community. At a meeting at the Saline Ettore Infersa, Russo, Gorelli and Lonardi stressed the importance of collaboration and dialogue with local institutions, entrepreneurs and winemakers. In attendance were the mayor of Marsala, Massimo Grillo, and prominent wine producers such as Alberto Tasca and Federica Fina. Together they aim to make the Stagnone lagoon a magnet for wine and cultural tourists all year round.

Sustainability and tradition as a guiding principle

The „SaltWest“ project is based on the principle of reparation: the region is to be restored to its original beauty by protecting its ecosystem, restoring historic vineyards and preserving local traditions. But this is only the beginning of a comprehensive plan to make the Stagnone a model for sustainable development.

„The first step has been taken,“ emphasize the three visionaries. „We will overcome the challenges ahead together.“

Marsala and the Stagnone:

A renaissance on the horizon
With „SaltWest“, Marsala is facing a promising future. The region has the potential to develop into a global beacon for wine tourism that combines pleasure, culture and landscape in a unique way.

With the support of the local community and growing interest from international media, the Stagnone lagoon could soon play a central role in the global wine scene – a place that harmoniously combines past and future.