TRAVAGLINI: Crafting the Pinnacle of Nebbiolo
In Gattinara, a small, renowned wine region at the foot of the Alps in northern Piedmont, Italy, lies Travaglini. For over 100 years, this winery has been dedicated to Nebbiolo.
Founded in 1920 by Clemente Travaglini, the winery has remained family-owned for five generations, introducing the world to the unique value of Gattinara.
Its history is not just the journey of a winery; it is also a tale of a family's passion, preserving the finest Nebbiolo of northern Piedmont.
The founding family. The current owners are Cinzia Travaglini, the 4th generation, and her husband, winemaker Massimo Collauto. Their daughters, Alessia and Carolina, have also joined the winemaking efforts.
Gattinara: A Renowned Region Since Roman Times
Gattinara's winemaking history dates back to Roman times. Its reputation peaked during the Renaissance, and by the late 19th century, it flourished as one of Europe's leading wine-producing regions, boasting approximately 600 hectares of vineyards.
Its history is even said to predate Barolo's.
However, in the early 20th century, phylloxera, repeated climatic disasters, and two World Wars forced many producers to close, leading the region into a period of hardship.
It was during this time that the founder, Clemente Travaglini, believed in the potential of this land.
He had faith in the future of the devastated Gattinara and began producing wine from his own vineyards. Eventually, Travaglini grew to become a leading presence in the region.
Then, in 1958, the third-generation owner, Giancarlo Travaglini, introduced innovative technologies and advanced winemaking techniques. This not only significantly improved the quality of the wine but also greatly contributed to raising the overall reputation of Gattinara as a region.
Gattinara's elevation to DOC in 1967 and DOCG in 1990 was thanks to the tireless efforts of these producers.
Today, Travaglini is one of Gattinara's leading producers, owning approximately 55 hectares of vineyards.
Unique Terroir Born from a Volcano
Gattinara DOCG is a small, distinguished wine region located in northern Piedmont. Its vineyards, situated on hillsides at elevations of approximately 260-480 meters, enjoy the cool influence of the Alps, creating an ideal environment for Nebbiolo cultivation.
The most distinctive feature of this region is its rare volcanic soil, formed by the caldera activity of a massive volcano over 70 million years ago.
Rich in diverse minerals such as porphyry, basalt, granite, iron, and limestone, this soil imparts a deep minerality, complex aromas, and a structure capable of long aging to the wines.
Furthermore, its location, just about 30 km from Monte Rosa at an elevation of 4,634m, also shapes Gattinara's character.
The cold winds blowing down from the Alps, the significant diurnal temperature variation, the healthy, fog-free environment, and abundant sunshine—this unique microclimate is why Nebbiolo wines with both elegance and power are cultivated here.
Functional Beauty and Philosophy in the “Twisted Bottle”
The most iconic symbol of Travaglini is its distinctively wavy bottle shape. This iconic bottle is an original design conceived and patented in 1958 by the third-generation owner, Giancarlo Travaglini.
"Great wine deserves a great bottle."
This philosophy led to its creation.
This form, commonly known as the "bottle ritorta (twisted bottle)," is not merely a design.
By naturally collecting the natural sediment that forms during long aging inside the bottle, it allows for a beautiful, clear pour into the glass without the need for decanting.
Furthermore, it features light-blocking dark glass and a structure suitable for long-term aging.
This bottle, combining artistry and practicality, can truly be called a symbol of Travaglini.
Traditional Winemaking, Faithfully Reflecting Gattinara
Travaglini's winemaking is carefully carried out in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks.
However, what they truly value is not technology, but faithfully reflecting the individuality of the land.
Therefore, aging primarily takes place in old large casks in their underground cellar, expressing Gattinara's inherent terroir in the most classical and traditional way.
While some cuvées use small French oak barrels, the purpose is not to embellish the wine but to further enhance the individuality of Nebbiolo.
Travaglini, with a philosophy passed down for over 100 years, continues to preserve the "taste born only in Gattinara" to this day.
Words of the 3rd generation, Giancarlo Travaglini
