Cantina Giardino

Producer Distinctions
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Imported by: Louis Dressner

Thank you to importer Louis/Dressner for this estate profile.

Cantina Giardino is a joint venture between six friends with the goal to preserve old vineyards and native grape varieties in and around  Irpinia, a mountainous town in the heart of Campania. Headed by Antonio and Daniela di Gruttola, the project sources fruit from 16 distinct and often quite distant parcels. In total, this represents about six hectares and includes a 2.5 ha plot that the couple recently purchased. From the beginning, the aim has been to source older vines (50+) from contadini who have been working traditionally for generations but were at risk of having to abandon or uproot their land.

The indigenous Aglianico, Coda di Volpe, Greco and Fiano grapes are used to make a wide, ever evolving range of reds, whites and rosé, all bottled with distinctive labels designed by a tight-knit crew of local artists. Vinification is an instinctual, unique process each vintage: Antonio currently owns a wide array of aging vessels, including oak and cherry wood barrels, demi-muits, stainless steel tanks, fiberglass and amphoras home-made by Daniela. Each year, the wine ends up where Antonio feels it needs to be. Longer elevages are typical for the Aglianicos, as is skin contact for the whites, although again both vary from wine to wine, vintage to vintage. In very rare cases and only if deemed absolutely necessary, a small dose of sulfur is added at bottling. Otherwise the wine is bottled as-is.

Background

  • Name of Estate: Cantina Giardino
  • Region: Campania
  • Country: Italy
  • Proprietor: Antonio and Daniela di Gruttola
  • Size: 6 hectares
  • Farming: Organic (Not Certified)
  • Soils: Heavy clay and limestone
  • Grapes grown: Aglianico, Coda di Volpe, Greco, Fiano, Barbera, Piedirosso
  • Fun facts: The Giardino project was originally funded by the Esso gas station owned and operated by Antonio di Grutolla's brother. It's still an excellent place to get gas if you're in the area.