Villa Sparina is located in Monterotondo, the heart of Gavi DOC. The estate was purchased by the Moccagatta family in the late 1970s and the winery is currently run by Mario Moccagatta along with his two sons, Stefano and Massimo.
Villa Sparina comprises 100 hectares of land, 70 of which are vineyards planted primarily with the most important local grape variety: Cortese. The vineyards stretch over the northern section of the Gavi appellation where the clay marl soils alternate with diluvial and gravelly soils, ideal for the production of richly flavoured white wines with immense ageing potential. Lying at altitudes between 250-300 meters a.s.l., the growing sites benefit from the maritime influence of the Mediterranean, about an hour’s drive by car.
They are increasingly oriented towards reducing yields in an effort to achieve the highest possible quality. Harvest is delayed until the last possible moment, giving the wines great concentration and a wonderful balance of acidity and fruit.
The winery vinifies its Cortese grapes in a variety of styles, including a lighter-style expression of Cortese blend from vineyards approximately 30 years in age; the richer, age-worthy Gavi Monterotondo from 40-year-old vines; and a sparkling wine aged on its lees for 30 months. The winery also grows and vinifies Barbera grapes, including a fresher style, stainless-steel aged 100 percent Barbera and a richer barrique-aged cru known as Rivalta, also 100 percent Barbera.
All of Villa Sparina's wines are presented in a distinctive bottle shape designed by Giacomo Bersanetti, who was inspired by an ancient Roman relic found during the excavation and restoration of the estate. The design is soft but compact, elegant but strong, modern but with an ancient touch at the same time.
