The Winemaking Art of Vigna Traverso: An Exploration of Tradition and Innovation

In the heart of the Colli Orientali del Friuli, in Prepotto, lies Vigna Traverso, a winery that embodies the art of wine through passion, tradition, and innovation. Founded by the vision of Giancarlo Traverso, Vigna Traverso is the result of a journey that began in the late 1980s when Giancarlo, already an established producer in the Piave area, decided to explore new lands and winemaking techniques. His love for wine led him to purchase six hectares of land in 1998, dedicating himself to the cultivation of historic grape varieties such as Ribolla Gialla, Schioppettino di Prepotto, and Friulano.

Today, Vigna Traverso is a leading name in the wine production of the Colli Orientali del Friuli, recognized nationally and internationally for the quality and character of its wines. This success is the result of the commitment of Stefano Traverso, Giancarlo’s son and the winery’s oenologist, who carries forward a winemaking philosophy that blends advanced technology, continuous research, and a deep respect for the land.

The Vigna Traverso winery is a perfect example of sustainable architecture and functionality. Centrally located on the hill, it offers breathtaking views of the vineyard rows and surrounding woods. Redesigned in 2011, the winery primarily uses steel for vinification, while French oak barrels are reserved for the aging of reds and the Sottocastello white. The use of concrete for the aging of whites demonstrates a sustainable approach, maintaining the ideal temperature without the need for refrigeration systems.

Twenty-two hectares of Vigna Traverso vineyards host both white and red grape varieties, all cultivated with a guyot training system that limits production to improve wine quality. The strictly manual harvest allows for separate vinification of each vineyard, thus enhancing the peculiarities of each variety.