Contratto Winery: A Sparkling History

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.