Ugolini vini

The grounds and vineyards have been part of the Ugolini family since the time of the grandfather, a story well-known among the local people of Valpolicella. It tells of a man whose first act each morning was to look out of the window to check the weather and the countryside. The family consists of three brothers: Giambattista, Davide, and Tiziano. After the passing of their father about 20 years ago, Giambattista, being the eldest, took the vineyards into his own hands. It was love at first sight, and the brothers have always believed in cultivating grapes to the highest standard, which led to the investment in south-facing vineyards.

To fulfill the dream of producing wine from their grapes, Giambattista worked for an important Italian company, far from home, to eventually return to work with the family vineyards in Fumane. About 10 years ago, the decision was made to move beyond simply selling the grapes grown in the vineyards and to begin winemaking, bottling the wine, and proudly placing the family name on it. This transition continues today, with ongoing improvements to the winemaking facilities.

For many years, the focus was on the agricultural aspect — the grapevines in the hills, with most of the vines being replanted. The beauty of the landscape is also a priority, with 14 kilometers of small walls that are meticulously maintained, a labor-intensive task that helps preserve the unique character of Valpolicella. Recently, the purchase of Corte Quaranta was completed — an antique house with a panoramic courtyard in the rural area below the hills of San Michele, near the winery. Now known as the ‘Ugolini’ house, it is the home of the family’s wine, a stunning place where the door is always open to welcome visitors.

Currently, at Ugolini Vini, 22 hectares are dedicated to cultivating Corvina Gentile, Corvinone, and Rondinella grapes. Nearby, approximately 7,000 square meters are devoted to olive tree cultivation in the high valleys of Fumane, producing local extra virgin olive oil. The farming methods combine practices from the oldest vineyards in Verona with those from vineyards established over the past decade. Each bottle of wine is treated with the utmost care and attention, whether it’s Valpolicella Classico or Amarone. Specific vineyards are dedicated to different wines, such as grapes from Il Pozzetto (Fumane) for Valpolicella Classico and those from Colle San Michele (Bure Alto) for Valpolicella Classico Superiore.

Among all agricultural activities, viticulture perhaps best expresses a deep bond with the land of origin. Non-invasive, respectful enology leads to wines that, year after year, are the result of the interaction between the genetic traits of the grape varieties and the unique pedoclimatic environment. The Ugolini family, committed to preserving this value, ensures that each type of wine produced on the estate is made from grapes that ripen in single vineyards. This approach allows each wine to reflect and express a specific cru, capturing the essence of the territory beyond the natural variability of each vintage.