Palazzo Tronconi
– Arce, Italy
Palazzo Tronconi is a biodynamic estate and agriturismo in Arce, a hillside village in southern Lazio’s Ciociaria region. Founded by winemaker and agronomist Marco Marrocco, the estate unites a vineyard, cellar, osteria, and guesthouse into one living organism.
The vineyards stretch across limestone and clay soils overlooking the Liri Valley. The estate cultivates historic Arcesi varieties once renowned throughout the old Kingdom of Naples: Lecinaro, Ulivello Nero, Pampanaro, Capolongo, and Maturano Bianco, alongside Malvasia Puntinata, Moscato di Terracina, and Syrah.
The vines are farmed according to the principles of biodynamic agriculture, rooted in Rudolf Steiner’s anthroposophy. At Palazzo Tronconi, every element — from vine to animal — contributes to the balance of life.
Cows represent digestion and grounding; sheep and goats bring rhythm and breath; hens spread warmth and energy, like blood in circulation. Their presence closes the natural cycle of fertility: waste becomes compost, and compost becomes life.
No herbicides, synthetic fertilizers, or chemical additives are ever used. Treatments are limited to natural preparations such as horn manure (500), horn silica (501), and herbal infusions to strengthen soil vitality and plant resilience. The estate is certified organic (ICEA) and Demeter biodynamic, reflecting the highest ecological standards.
In the 1,000 m² vinification cellar, designed by architect and oenologist Roberto Mazzer, concrete vats, terracotta amphorae, and oak and acacia barrels allow each wine to evolve naturally. Fermentations occur spontaneously with native yeasts, guided by lunar phases and minimal intervention. Wines mature slowly and are bottled without fining or filtration.
As Marrocco says, “Wines are like people—each with its own temperament and truth.”
Among them, Fregellae 2023, made entirely from the rare Capolongo grape, it’s an ancient local white variety revived by the estate. Golden and expressive, it opens with aromas of wildflowers, ginestra, ripe stone fruit, and a delicate mineral lift. It was honored as a Top Wine – Vino Slow 2026 by Slow Wine.
