Ep. 2655 Mauricio De Chiaro IWA interviews Anna De Backer of IDivini winery in Isola d'Asti, Piedmont | Clubhouse Ambassadors' Corner

In this special Clubhouse session of the Italian Wine Podcast, Maurizio De Chiaro interviews Anna De Baccar, co-founder and winemaker of I Divini Winery in Isola d'Asti, Piedmont. Anna, originally from Belgium and trained as an interior architect, shares her journey of transitioning into winemaking after falling in love with Piedmont’s landscapes and wines during frequent visits. With her husband Kuhn, she pursued formal viticulture studies in Belgium before launching their winery in 2018. The episode highlights their creative, design-driven approach to winemaking, emphasizing storytelling, emotional connection, and respect for terroir. Anna discusses their focus on native Piedmontese grapes like Barbera, Freisa, and Cortese, as well as innovative blends and sustainable practices. The conversation also touches on the challenges and triumphs of being a woman entrepreneur in a traditionally male-dominated industry, with Anna recounting how she earned respect by working hands-on in the cellar. The episode concludes with a celebration of International Women’s Day, underscoring Anna’s role as an inspiration for aspiring female winemakers. Key takeaways include the importance of starting with education before launching a winery, the power of storytelling in branding, the value of sustainability beyond organic certification, and the significance of blending tradition with innovation. Anna’s winery, I Divini, exemplifies how creativity, authenticity, and a deep connection to place can produce wines that resonate with both connoisseurs and everyday consumers. Her journey proves that passion, resilience, and a willingness to ask 'why' can transform dreams into reality, even across cultures and career shifts.