Castello Papadopoli Giol

The Integrity Take

Giol is run in its current form by Vittorio Giol. He is sheppharding his family's vineyards on a piece of land that has been continuously growing grapes since 1427. This thought rolls around my head often and makes me gasp at the weight of Vittorio's mission. He is an innovator in some respects and a fierce advocate of the "old ways" in others. He makes a Prosecco that defies the conventions most people understand. Vittorio still lives on the Estate (in a real castle!!) with his wife and three sons.

Oldest documented winery in Italy, dating back to 1427
Began organic farming in 1987
Release beneficial insects to deal with potential infestations

The Story

Giol has an incredible history. It is the oldest documented winery in Italy, dating back to 1427. A certified organic, ethical and environmentally friendly winery producing award winning sparkling and still wines exclusively from grapes grown on the historic La Bicana, Il Bassonet, Le Gerette and Spiridiona estates. The winery seeks to combine the highest quality with the greatest respect for the environment by farming all 25 hectares of vineyards using organic methods.

Cantine GIOL is now run by Vittorio Carraro. Vittorio prides himself on making fresh, vibrant and immediately enjoyable wines which are honest, estate grown, certified organic wines made with great respect for all things and people involved. Vittorio Carraro Giol still lives on the estate and oversees it with great commitment and gratitude. His mother Luisa, Giovanni’s niece, continues to visit these places where she spent her childhood. Vittorio’s children are growing up with a very close bond with this environment.

When Vittorio took over the business in 1998, he continued to renew the equipment in the vineyards and cellar; he vinified the grapes from the historic estates using organic farming techniques, respectful of the environment and raw materials, producing organic and vegan wines and a range without added sulphites. The decision to produce wines without animal additives (commonly used in some stages of winemaking) and without the use of sulphites did indeed seem like a very difficult challenge, but it turned out to be ahead of the curve in terms of issues that are now widely shared. These choices are distinctive to our production and the pride of our team.