autochthonous selections by nature
The Fondatori, ancient Romagna character
For some years we have reached the important milestone of sixty years of activity. Today as then we are animated by the same passion and the same ideals of rural authenticity. To celebrate this important anniversary, the project of two wines of great class and structure, typically native, dedicated to the Founders was born: two labels, re-proposed by the grandchildren as progenitors of a high-profile line.
These are “Fondatori PG” Romagna D.O.C. Sangiovese Superiore Riserva, named after our grandfather Paolo, and “Fondatori GP” Romagna Albana D.O.C.G. Secco, after our grandmother Giovanna. The founders fell in love with these varieties from an early age and soon embraced the philosophy of enhancing local grapes, seeking to obtain the best possible wines from them. Today, these wines perfectly reflect local traditions and convey the passion with which the skillful hands of the same family have been producing them for generations.
Fondatori PG
Romagna D.O.C.
“Authoritative personality”
Grifi, the challenge enters the scene
A free rein
Supported by the solid experience gained in growing native varieties, in the late nineties we decided to focus on international grape varieties as well. This was a successful insight, considering that nowadays desires have to give way to needs. The ambition to compete with the best Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignons in the world encouraged us to go beyond the boundaries of the local wine-making process, broadening our horizons and looking further afield. Our spirit of initiative, strength and willingness to embrace innovative ideas allowed us to produce these talented wines that reflect a specific new way of being.
sons of our land
The reliability of experience
The thoroughbred of the Merlotta stable. The second generation of wine-makers managed to develop, enhance and constantly improve three great classical wines, eventually making them familiar to lovers of traditional wines. These wines fully embody the characteristics of their respective appellations and are the result of the unity, hard labour and talents of the second generation. Ever since 1997 (the year in which D.O.C. Colli d’Imola was established) Raffaele, Adriana and Nerio have always believed Pignoletto, anticipating the ongoing revolution in which this wine as a variety appellation is becoming a territorial one. Today Pignoletto is the wine that links Emilia and Romagna. This important goal, that we have been pursuing for more than 20 years, is another challenge that we suceeded in winning: today Pignoletto – along with its “companion” Sangiovese – is well positioned to represent our region all over the world.
Trideo
D.O.C. Sottozona Colli d’Imola
“Always the protagonist”
provocative effervescence
Positive vibrations
There is a phase in the life of each one of us that stays engraved in our minds, in the shrine of the best memories. This is the hedonistic period of youth, characterised by the exhilarating desire for joie de vivre and success. Prèdio, available in two different version, is able to amplify all these feelings. The name of the collection (Prèdio means “estate” in Latin) underlines the origin of the grapes grown in a specific section of Pinot Nero on our estate. Encouraged by the requests of Marco, our sales director, Fabio (the winery’s oenologist) created these decisive and versatile sparkling wines in collaboration with Vito Piffer (a master in sparkling wines from Trento). The Merlotta brand is a quality seal for these wines, whose lively and joyful bubbles are able to brighten up any occasion.
homage to women
An essential presence
Women of today, women of the past. Determined, strong, intuitive and generous, women capable of listening and sharing. They wisely and sensitively oversee family relations , looking after all aspects of the business with skill and determination. Their strength constantly unveils new aspects and generates new ideas. Special things are born out of the interplay between the men and women of Merlotta . Without its feminine component, Merlotta would not be the same.
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Divine Triad
Albana and Sangiovese are two very ancient vines to which are linked stories, legends and important passages traceable in various literary works. The three wines of the Tridènte line, aged for three years, refer to the three prongs of the trident of Neptune, God of the waters, a figure to which we connect the pictorial elements found and preserved in the ancient manor house of the Minzolini family a few steps from the headquarters of the Merlotta winery.
Vini Buoni d’Italia 2025
Another great satisfaction branded Merlotta. Our Fondatori GP Albana Secco DOCG 2023 has been included among the 300 best wines of Italy by the guide Vinibuoni d’Italia 2025.
Preview of the Tridènte collection
Many of you have come to visit us to launch this new chapter in the more than 60-year-long romance of the Merlotta winery.