Welcome to episode 2605 of the Italian Wine Podcast and episode 230 of Wine, Food & Travel with Marc Millon. In this episode, Marc is in conversation with Enzo Barbi of the Decugnano dei Barbi winery in Orvieto, Umbria.
Their discussion explores the history and geography of Orvieto, the region’s unique tufo soils and underground caves, and the estate’s signature wines – going beyond the white wines Orvieto is best known for. Listeners will also discover Decugnano dei Barbi’s distinctive Muffa Nobile wine and learn how to distinguish noble rot from grey rot.
More about today’s guest:
Enzo was introduced to wine and winemaking by his father, Claudio, who founded Decugnano dei Barbi in 1973 in Orvieto, Umbria. Raised in Lombardy, Enzo spent his summers at the winery, helping in the cellar and with the harvest. His education took him to Milan, where he studied business administration. After graduation, he worked in international corporate finance. During that time, Enzo had the opportunity to live in five different countries, allowing him to meet diverse people and experience their cultures. In 2008 he left the world of corporate finance to learn the aspects of the wine business from his father. Today, Enzo resides at the vineyard and manages the winery. His goal is to produce high-quality, terroir-driven wines that best express the unique sandy-clay marine soil of Decugnano dei Barbi.
Connect:
Website: https://www.decugnanodeibarbi.com/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/enzobarbi/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decugnanodeibarbi/
More about the host:
Marc Millon, a VIA Italian Wine Ambassador since 2021, is a celebrated expert in the world of wine, food, and travel and an award-winning author of 15 books on these topics. Since 2021, he has been the host of the ‘Wine, Food, and Travel with Marc Millon’ weekly series on the Italian Wine Podcast, which now has well over 220 episodes of the show. Marc’s latest book is “Italy in a Wineglass – the Taste of History” published by Hurst, London and Melville House, New York (Guild of Food Writers ‘Drinks Writer Award’ 2025 and the World Gourmand ‘Best Wine History Book in the World Award’ 2025). In addition to his writing and podcasting, Marc is a sought-after speaker and hosts gastronomic cultural tours to Italy in partnership with Martin Randall Travel, a leading specialist in cultural travel. When he’s not exploring the culinary landscapes of the world, Marc resides along the scenic River Exe in Devon, England.
Connect:
Website:
https://www.marcmillon.co.uk
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-millon-50868624/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Marc_Millon
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Until next time, Cin Cin!
Thanks for listening! This show is all about food and wine pairings, and traveling through Italy with Marc. Join him on this food, wine and cultural journey!
What is Muffa Nobile wine?
Muffa Nobile refers to a noble-rot-affected wine style from Orvieto that showcases complex, botrytized character distinct from ordinary rot.
Why is Orvieto famous for wine?
Orvieto is known for its volcanic soils, historic underground cellars, and long tradition of producing both dry whites and noble-rot wines.
What is “tufo”?
Tufo is volcanic rock. It drains well, retains minerals, and helps create structured, mineral-driven wines.
