Carolina Gatti, a pioneering figure in the world of natural wine, helms Azienda Agricola Gatti, located in the Veneto region of Italy. Her commitment to natural winemaking is rooted deeply in a rich family tradition that dates back to the late 1800s. The estate is nestled in Ponte di Piave, near Treviso, and spans approximately 5 hectares, embracing a holistic approach to agriculture.

Carolina graduated with a degree in Oenology in 2012, specializing in the local variety Raboso del Piave, a grape known for its sharp acidity and unique character. Her passion for Raboso is evident, as she dedicated her dissertation to this variety and even named her blog "Rabosando."

The vineyards at Azienda Agricola Gatti are cultivated using the traditional and almost extinct "belussera" trellising system. This method demands rigorous manual labor and yields exceptional-quality grapes from vines, some of which are over 80 years old. Carolina, along with her father Lorenzo, mother Renata, and brother Lino, contribute to the vineyard's operations, embracing sustainable practices.

Aside from vine cultivation, the Gatti family also raises free-range livestock and grows grains and cereals organically. The organic manure from the livestock is used to fertilize the vineyards, thereby maintaining a self-sufficient and environmentally friendly farming ecosystem.

Carolina adheres to natural wine production principles in the cellar, eschewing the use of additives or invasive procedures. All fermentations occur spontaneously; she refrains from fining or filtering the wines. This approach ensures that the wines retain their authentic and unadulterated character.

Carolina's most notable wine, the Prosecco Bolle Corsare, is a testament to her commitment to natural winemaking. Despite not being recognized by the official Prosecco commission, it symbolizes her wines' authentic and independent nature. Fermented in cement like all of Carolina's wines, Bolle Corsare stands out with its rich aromas and flavors, distinguishing itself from conventional Proseccos.

Carolina Gatti's winery is a vibrant example of the natural wine movement, where traditional methods meet modern ecological principles, resulting in wines that are not just beverages but stories of the land and its stewards.

History

Located in north-eastern Italy, Veneto boasts a deep-rooted history that extends from its early days under the Roman Empire, transitioning through the influential Republic of Venice, and later becoming part of the Austrian Empire until its annexation to the Kingdom of Italy in 1866. This historical legacy positions Veneto as a significant region in Italy's cultural and viticultural narratives.

Terroir

Geographically smaller than some of Italy's renowned wine-producing regions like Piedmont and Tuscany, Veneto is, nonetheless, the country's top wine producer. Its terroir is varied, with distinct geographical zones each offering unique climatic and soil conditions. To the northwest, the alpine foothills border Lake Garda, while the eastern region hosts Valpolicella, renowned for its red wines. Further east lies Soave, Gambellara, and the Colli Euganei region near Padua, known for distinct white varietals. The region spans 90,000 hectares, with 35,400 hectares designated as DOC. Notably, the last two decades have seen an increasing interest in organic and natural wine practices in Veneto.

Wines

In Veneto, the spectrum of wines is broad, with a focus on both red and white varietals. Red wines prominently feature grapes such as Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara, essential for producing the celebrated Amarone, Ripasso, and Recioto wines. On the white wine front, Garganega is the foundation of Soave, exhibiting characteristics of citrus and almond, while Glera, previously known as Prosecco, forms the base for the eponymous sparkling wine. Pinot Grigio and Trebbiano di Soave further diversify the white wine portfolio. The synergy between Veneto's wines and its regional cuisine, ranging from seafood delicacies of the Adriatic to traditional dishes like bigoli pasta, underscores the region's rich gastronomic heritage.