Collavini's Innovation Bubbles Through Generations
Our journey into the Collavini story begins in 1896, with the vision of Eugenio Collavini, who first established his estate in Rivignano. From humble beginnings, supplying local nobility and shops, a remarkable legacy began to quietly take root. His son, Giovanni Collavini, skillfully navigated the winery through the tumultuous years of two World Wars, ensuring its survival and steady growth.
However, it was Manlio Collavini, Giovanni's son, who truly ignited a revolution within the Friulian wine landscape. In a strategic move in 1966, he relocated the winery's headquarters to the prestigious Corno di Rosazzo, placing the estate firmly within the embrace of the region's most prized terroir. The breathtaking 16th-century Villa Zucco-Cuccagna, now the winery's elegant heart, became a powerful symbol of their unwavering commitment to quality.
Manlio was not one to simply adhere to tradition; he was a true innovator. In 1969, he boldly reimagined Pinot Grigio, vinifying it as a crisp, elegant white wine – a striking and brilliant departure from the coppery hues that were commonplace at the time. This single act redefined the varietal not only in Friuli but also on the global stage. He further championed transparency, quite literally, by bottling his exquisite wines in clear glass, allowing their luminous beauty to shine through.
Yet, Manlio's most audacious innovation was still to come. Recognizing the untapped potential of the indigenous Ribolla Gialla grape, he dared to dream of bubbles. In the late 1970s, he meticulously crafted the first sparkling Ribolla Gialla, a revelation born from what is now celebrated as the "Collavini Method." This painstaking process of extended secondary fermentation – a minimum of 30 months in horizontal, pressurized tanks – yielded a sparkling wine of unparalleled freshness, delicate complexity, and remarkable structure. Even the charming wire-haired Dachshund that graces Collavini labels carries a heartwarming story, a tribute to founder Eugenio's beloved companion, Ribolla.
Today, the fourth generation of the Collavini family – Manlio and his sons, Giovanni, Luigi, and Eugenio – proudly carry the torch forward. They seamlessly blend time-honored traditions with cutting-edge oenological practices for their 140 hectares (of which 20 hectares are family owned). Their vineyards, primarily situated within the esteemed Collio and Colli Orientali del Friuli DOCs, benefit from the unique "ponca" soil, a distinctive blend of marl and sandstone that imparts a singular character to their wines.
The story of Eugenio Collavini is far more than just the history of a winery; it's a compelling testament to the power of vision, the courage to embrace innovation, and the enduring strength of family. It's a captivating narrative of how one estate helped shape the very identity of a renowned wine region, leaving an indelible mark on the world of fine wine. Discover the legacy, taste the innovation – experience the extraordinary world of Eugenio Collavini.
