Fontanafredda, Piedmont, Italy
Fontanafredda, Piedmont, Italy
Situated in the heart of Italy’s Piedmont region, Fontanafredda is a cornerstone of Barolo’s rich history. Established in 1858 by King Vittorio Emanuele II as a gift to his beloved Rosa Vercellana, affectionately known as “La Bela Rusin,” the estate has evolved into a symbol of enduring legacy and innovation in winemaking.
Spanning approximately 120 hectares, Fontanafredda’s vineyards are nestled within various Comune across the Langhe region, and from plots with altitudes between 210 up to 370 meters. This elevation, coupled with a climate characterized by significant diurnal temperature variations, creates the ideal environment for cultivating grape varieties such as Nebbiolo, Barbera, Dolcetto, and Moscato.
A hallmark of Fontanafredda’s viticulture is its collection of historic vineyards, notably Vigna La Rosa. Located within the MGA Fontanafredda in the Comune of Serralunga d’Alba, Vigna La Rosa holds the distinction since 1964 of identifying and releasing the first single-vineyard Barolo. This vineyard’s soil composition—a blend of sand, silt, and clay—imparts a floral elegance to its wines, characterized by notes of roses and violets.
Another esteemed vineyard is Vigna La Delizia, situated in the MGA Lazzarito, one of Barolo’s most acclaimed crus. The ancient Tortonian marls provide excellent drainage and nutrient retention, resulting in powerful wines with intense tannins, dark fruit flavors, and an underlying minerality. These wines are renowned for their longevity, aging gracefully for over 20 years.
Vigna S. Pietro, located in the MGA Fontanafredda, is another high-potential cru. The direct southwest exposure contributes to robust wines with rich tannins and complex aromas. These wines exhibit a special blend of subtle floral bouquet alongside dark fruit flavors, with an undertone of earthiness and spice.
Fontanafredda’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its organic farming practices, covering all 120 hectares of vineyards. The estate employs controlled grassing techniques, eschewing synthetic fertilizers and herbicides, to promote biodiversity and maintain vine health. Innovations such as the use of electric forklifts and the introduction of a biomethane-powered tractor further underscore their dedication to reducing environmental impact.
In 2008, visionary entrepreneur native of Le Langhe, Oscar Farinetti and his partners acquired Fontanafredda, ushering in a new era focused on quality, sustainability, and hospitality. Under his leadership, the estate became the largest certified organic winery in Piedmont, reflecting a profound respect for the land and a commitment to producing exceptional wines.
“Fontanafredda’s mission is to allow for each wine’s distinct personality by respecting and promoting the deep reciprocity between grapes, terroir, and human interaction. The estate aims to narrate the territory’s singularity, focusing not only on each individual MGA but also on every single vineyard within. This approach highlights the rich biodiversity of the Langhe while preserving its deep historical memory.” Says agriculturist and winemaker, Giorgio Lavagna
Through a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, Fontanafredda continues to be a beacon of excellence in the world of Barolo wines, honoring its storied past while looking toward a sustainable and vibrant future.
