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Contratto Winery: A Sparkling History

Discover the legacy of Contratto Winery in Canelli, the birthplace of Italian sparkling wine, and explore its UNESCO World Heritage cellars.

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Founded in 1867, Contratto Winery is a historic estate in Canelli, Italy, renowned for producing the first vintage Italian sparkling wine and its UNESCO World Heritage underground cellars. Visitors can explore the cellars and taste the winery's acclaimed Alta Langa DOCG sparkling wines.

A brief summary to Contratto Winery

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability for the cellar visit and wine tasting.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the cellar tour involves walking through extensive underground spaces.
  • Consider a full-day experience to immerse yourself in the Piedmontese tradition, including a tour, tasting, and traditional lunch paired with local wines.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Canelli, Contratto Winery is located approximately a 10-15 minute walk. Head northeast from Piazza Amedeo d'Aosta along Via Roma, then turn right onto Via Giovanni Battista Giuliani. The winery will be on your right. The walk is relatively flat and straightforward.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Canelli, particularly near the train station or in the town center. A short taxi ride from the Canelli train station to Contratto Winery typically costs around €10-€15, depending on traffic and the specific taxi service.

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Discover more about Contratto Winery

Contratto Winery, nestled in the heart of Canelli, Italy, boasts a rich history dating back to 1867 when Giuseppe Contratto established the winery. Contratto began by vinifying Moscato grapes from Monferrato, pioneering the production of Italian sparkling wine using the traditional method. The winery's legacy is deeply intertwined with the creation of Italy's first vintage sparkling wine in 1919, solidifying its place in wine history. The estate's historic cellars, often referred to as the "Wine Cathedral," are a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized in 2014. These cellars were meticulously hand-excavated from the tuff limestone hills of Canelli, a project that took over five years and involved 200 workers. Stretching across 5,000 square meters and reaching depths of 38 meters, the cellars maintain a constant temperature of 13°C (55°F) and optimal humidity, ideal for the fermentation and maturation of sparkling wines. Throughout its history, Contratto has been a purveyor of prestige and quality, serving as the official wine supplier to the Vatican, the Belgian Royal House, and the Italian Royal Family. After facing economic difficulties, the winery was acquired by Carlo Bocchino in 1993, who initiated significant restoration work. In 2011, Giorgio Rivetti and his family, owners of La Spinetta, acquired Contratto, bringing renewed passion and expertise to the estate. Today, Contratto focuses on producing high-quality traditional method sparkling wines and selected spirits, using estate-grown fruit from vineyards in Alta Langa. A visit to Contratto offers a journey through time, exploring the magnificent underground cellars and learning about the meticulous production methods. Visitors can indulge in tastings of the winery's acclaimed Alta Langa DOCG sparkling wines, experiencing the elegance and finesse that define Contratto.

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