Maligni ( pl. for "malignant") is an old family nickname that has defined the Tomei family for over four generations. It was born long ago from a lively argument between our old pater familias, Pasquale Tomei, and the local village priest. Today, Fabio Tomei represents the fifth generation of winemakers here in Villa Reale, a small village nestled in the Chieti hills, looking out towards the Adriatic Sea in the heart of Abruzzo.

The family farm spans sixteen hectares of organic vineyards, balanced by seven hectares of olive trees and grain fields. Winemaking in this area dates back to the 15th century, and we are blessed with a diverse landscape of high hills and deep valleys. Because every grape has its favorite soil, they plant the Montepulciano d'Abruzzo up on the clay hills, while the Pecorino thrives in the fresh, water-rich valleys near a natural spring. Nearby, on another sandy plot scattered with ancient oyster fossils, they grow the Passerina, alongside the rare, local Cococciola and Trebbiano, another traditional variety of our region.

They cultivate their land organically and work in a purely artisanal way. From harvesting the grapes mostly by hand to corking the bottles, everything is done right here in their Cantina. When you open a bottle of Maligni, you are sharing their true passion, their daily commitment, and a great deal of authentic Abruzzo stubbornness.

When Fabio Tomei was very young he searched for a sense of identity. After years of wandering he decided to return to his roots in Abruzzo.  To reconnect with nature and the countryside  where he grew up. This made all the difference.

In 2005 Fabio began making wine, in 2009 he expanded the vineyard, in 2011 he released Mastro and Maia.

“I feel that my journey into the world of wine is still a long one, and that I still have so much to learn and discover!” Fabio Tomei