“Vite Mie – Dalla barbatella al Ditirambo”: the tale of Mario Maffi, the Oltrepò Pavese oenologist

“Vite Mie – From the Vine Cutting to the Dithyramb” is a book that captivates with its authenticity and depth. Written by Giovanni Maggi and Fabio Draghi, it tells the story of Mario Maffi, one of the most renowned winemakers of Oltrepò Pavese, highlighting not only his professional journey but also his most intimate and personal traits.

Mario Maffi is a multifaceted figure, known for his contributions to the wine world and his love for the land and its traditions. Raised in Retorbido as a child, he had a simple upbringing that deeply connected him to the land. A turning point came when he moved to Voghera, where he attended agricultural school and cultivated his passion for viticulture.

After his first job at a farm in Lomellina, Mario entered the wine world, working at notable wineries in Casteggio and Nazzano before settling in Codevilla. Each experience enriched him, shaping him into a key figure in the winemaking scene of Oltrepò Pavese.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Mario Maffi is his connection to local traditions and superstitions. Also known as a water diviner, Maffi embodies ancient knowledge intertwined with his modern approach to viticulture. However, his life wasn’t limited to the wine world—Mario also served as a municipal councilor in Rivanazzano, demonstrating his civic commitment.

Maffi’s recognition as a winemaker grew through his wine tasting events across Lombardy. In Rivanazzano, venues like the Selvatico restaurant and the Migliora Library became prime locations, thanks to collaborations with Piera Spalla Selvatico and Giuseppe Bertone. Mario is not only a wine expert but also a skilled speaker, journalist, and educator, qualities that have established him as a prominent figure in the Italian wine scene.

Mario Maffi describes his life using three words: life, wine, and land. For him, wine is more than just a drink—it represents health, culture, economy, and art. It is an element that brings people together, tells stories, and celebrates traditions.

An important chapter in Maffi’s life is his brotherly relationship with Edgardo Rovati, the first director of the Wine Consortium. Maffi recalls with emotion how Rovati always supported him, sharing crucial moments in his career.

This book is much more than a biography: it is a tribute to the culture of wine and the history of Oltrepò Pavese. Enriched by contributions from Mario’s friends and colleagues, the volume offers curiosities, anecdotes, and an authentic portrait of a man who transformed wine into art and the land into poetry.

“Vite Mie – From the Vine Cutting to the Dithyramb” is an essential read for lovers of wine and Italian culture. Mario Maffi’s story is not just the tale of a winemaker but an emotional journey through the land, life, and wine. A book that celebrates Oltrepò Pavese and its protagonists.