Ancient Wisdom, Modern Craft: Learning the Frescobaldi Art from Matteo Himself

There are moments in life when history ceases to feel distant, transforming instead into a living narrative that breathes through people, places, and traditions. Our recent journey with Matteo Frescobaldi, the 30th generation of a family whose story stretches over seven centuries, was one of those rare and powerful moments.

The Legacy of Frescobaldi: A Tapestry of Tuscan Heritage

Walking alongside Matteo through Tuscany, we felt the weight and wonder of a family whose influence has touched not only Tuscan winemaking traditions but also the very fabric of Florence cultural history.

The Frescobaldi legacy is woven through iconic milestones:

- Friendship with Dante Alighieri, safeguarding drafts of his masterpieces during his exile

- Supplying wines to Donatello, the Renaissance sculptor whose work still defines Florence’s artistic skyline

- Commissioning the elegant Santa Trinita bridge, a timeless symbol spanning the Arno River

Their story is the story of Italy itself—a narrative where art, culture, and craftsmanship are inseparably linked.

A Meeting with Pastificio Fabbri: Ancient Grains and Artisan Pasta Italy

Our journey with Matteo took an exciting turn as he introduced us to Marco Fabbri at Pastificio Fabbri, a third-generation pasta maestro whose dedication mirrors the Frescobaldi commitment to excellence.

At Pastificio Fabbri, we discovered:

- Tirrena pasta, crafted from ancient grains cultivated for both nutrition and unique flavor

- A patient drying process extending over three days, allowing each strand of pasta to develop its ideal texture and character

This meticulous craft exemplifies the essence of artisan pasta Italy—where time itself becomes an ingredient, infusing every bite with tradition and authenticity.

‍Lunch at Tenuta Castiglioni: A Feast of Heritage

The pinnacle of our journey was lunch at Tenuta Castiglioni, the Frescobaldi family’s 700-year-old estate. Sitting amidst olive groves and sun-drenched vineyards, Matteo shared insights into the family’s philosophy:

- That true excellence lies in respecting the past while innovating for the future

- That great brands are more than products—they are stories carried forward by generations

It was there we realized that the magic behind products like Laudemio olive oil and Tirrena pasta isn’t merely technique—it’s an unbroken chain of wisdom and artistry passed down through the ages.

Laudemio Olive Oil: Liquid Gold of Tuscany

Among the treasures we encountered, few shine as brightly as Laudemio olive oil. A product cherished worldwide for its vibrant green color and peppery freshness, Laudemio represents:

- The unique terroir of Frescobaldi wine Tuscany estates

- Meticulous harvesting and processing techniques

- A deep commitment to preserving quality and tradition

Each bottle of Laudemio is a testament to the luxury Italian food brands that continue to define global standards.

Crafting Brands Rooted in Authenticity

Our journey resonated deeply with our core belief at Bootleg & Mono:

Truly great brands respect the past, resonate with the present, and anticipate the future.

We believe that just as the Frescobaldis have preserved and elevated their heritage, brands today must weave tradition into modern innovation. It’s this fusion that nurtures authenticity and fuels creativity, creating brands that endure and inspire.

Grazie di Cuore, Matteo!

Our heartfelt gratitude goes to Matteo Frescobaldi for guiding us through a journey that transcended business and entered the realm of art, history, and passion. From the vineyards of Tuscany to the artistry of pasta making, we witnessed firsthand how centuries of wisdom continue to shape modern craftsmanship.

Here’s to the next chapter of stories, partnerships, and shared creativity that honor the past while embracing the future.