With profound sadness, we bid farewell to Dr. Franco Bernabei.
To us, he was not only one of Italy's greatest winemakers.
He was the man who believed in the Icario project from his very first meeting with the Rothenberger Family, recognizing its potential and choosing to embark on a journey driven by passion, research, and the constant pursuit of excellence.
As he once wrote, he fell in love with Icario and its philosophy, beginning a journey that would leave an indelible mark on the history of our winery.
With his expertise, sensitivity, and extraordinary talent, he was able to capture the soul of our terroir and transform it into wines that now speak to the world. Yet his greatest legacy is a human one: a team that grew alongside him, united by the same vision, the same passion, and the same deep respect for this land.
Just a few days ago, we shared one of the greatest achievements in our history: the Best in Show award at the Decanter World Wine Awards 2026 for our Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG 2021. An extraordinary recognition that also bears his signature and will forever remain part of his legacy.
In a letter he wrote for Icario, he left us these words:
"After a dream met a terroir, I devoted myself to nurturing it so that, at last, you could taste it."
Within this sentence lies his very essence: passion, dedication, respect for the land, and a profound love for wine.
To his family, we extend our deepest sympathy and our most heartfelt embrace.
Thank you, Franco, for sharing your talent, your humanity, and your vision with us. Your memory will continue to live on in every harvest, every glass of wine, and in the story of Icario.
The Rothenberger Family and the entire Icario Team