Cantina Martinelli began with a return home to old Garganega vines. In the early 2010s, Francesco Martinelli came back from travelling abroad and joined forces with agronomist Antonio Zappoli in Fittà, Soave.
His father Dario, a philosopher and yoga teacher, had bought the farmhouse in the 1990s. Francesco brought his own background in art and restaurants to the project.
The Garganega plots grow on volcanic basalt, with plantings dating from 1953 to 1961. Organic and biodynamic practices guide the vineyard work; native yeasts, no fining or filtration, and minimal sulphur additions shape the cellar approach.
The wines have also earned recognition beyond Soave. Wine Enthusiast awarded Pantagruele 2017 92 points and Editors’ Choice, and Il Gigante Gargantua 2022 91 points. Old Garganega is the thread through the range.
