Crafted by one of Italy’s most celebrated winemakers, Ad Astra is an exceptional value that balances immediate approachability with deep complexity.

The historic Nittardi estate has been guided by the Canali Femfert family since 1981. In the early 1990s, they brought on legendary consultant winemaker Carlo Ferrini. Universally acclaimed, Ferrini was named Enologist of the Year by Gambero Rosso (2000) and the Associazione Italiana Sommelier (2003), and Winemaker of the Year by Wine Enthusiast (2008). While Ferrini shapes some of Italy’s most iconic estates—including Fonterutoli, San Leonardo, and Brancaia—his work at Nittardi fiercely preserves the distinct personality of the local terroir.

Nittardi boasts a remarkable history: Michelangelo Buonarroti once owned the estate, producing wine here while painting the Sistine Chapel and sending it as a yearly gift to the Pope. To honor this Renaissance connection, Nittardi pairs each vintage with an internationally acclaimed artist to design its unique label and wrapping paper. Past collaborators include Yoko Ono and Günter Grass, while the 2019 vintage features the work of celebrated contemporary artist Fabrizio Plessi.

The name Ad Astra comes from the Latin phrase per aspera ad astra—"a rough road leads to the stars"—reflecting the relentless, loving care required in the vineyards to achieve greatness.