A Storied Past and Timeless Heritage
Castello di Spessa’s origins trace back to at least the 13th century, built upon even earlier Roman and Lombard settlements. Over the centuries, the estate passed through illustrious lineages – Durinbergo (Dornberg), Rassauer and the Della Torre Valsàssina family said to descend from Charlemagne. Such noble associations imbued the castle with cultural gravitas. In 1773, Giacomo Casanova spent two months at the estate and reflected on its excellent wine in his memoirs.
It was in 1987 that Italian entrepreneur “Loretto Pali” acquired the castle and its vineyards, giving birth to what we know today as “Castello di Spessa” Golf & Wine Resort & SPA.
The Pali Family : Guardians of Tradition & Innovation
Loretto Pali embodied Friulian pride and entrepreneurial acumen. He expanded the estate, bringing together vineyards across “COLLIO and ISONZO”, and guided it toward global recognition. Enlisting the expertise of oenologist “Enrico Paternoster” in 2014 catalysed a renaissance in production quality, introducing refined wine lines like “Eccellenza del Conte” (for extended aging) alongside the traditional DOC Collio and DOC Isonzo wines.
The Terroir & Vineyards: Nature’s Poetic Palette
Nestled in Collio Goriziano, between the Julian Alps and the Adriatic, these rolling hills benefit from cool alpine breezes and maritime influences, ideal for growing nuanced grape varieties. Soils composed of Ponca, Eocene origin marl and sandstone lend minerality, structure and age worthiness to the wines.
Vineyards: The estate spans approximately 83 hectares in Collio and 55 hectares in Isonzo. Grapes flourish under low yield, night harvest regimes with varietals such as :
- Whites: Friulano, Ribolla Gialla, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Bianco, Pinot Grigio
- Reds: Pinot Nero, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
Recent innovations include ultra premium Pinot plots: “VIGNA DEI 3 PINOT, cultivated with “Simonit & Sirch methods for Burgundy/Champagne level quality.
Castello di Spessa Wines: From Classic to Crus
Castello di Spessa’s wines are grouped into three principal categories:
- Eccellenze del Conte: Crus intended for long term aging
- DOC Collio & DOC Isonzo lines: Elegant, terroir expressive
- Spumante and Other Specialties: Including method classic bubbles like “Amadeus”
Signature Labels
- Sauvignon Segré (2022)
- Pinot Bianco Santarosa, Ramato Joy (Pinot Grigio), Ribolla Gialla “ Yellow Hills”, Friulano ‘Rassauer’, and Bianco Collio Riserva San Serff reflect district identities.
- For Reds: Merlot Torriani, Pinot Nero Casanova and Rosso Collio Riserva San Serff deliver structure and regional sophistication
- The Medieval cellars and WWII era bunker (rediscovered in 1987) at 18 metres provide ideal constant 14 degrees Celsius for aging the “Cru” and spirits like Grappa Riserva Conte Ludovico.
Wine Estates & Production:
Vineyard cultivation, harvest, winemaking, bottling occurs in house. Night harvest preserves freshness, low yields focus aromatic intensity, varietal specific vinifications honor regional clarity. Annual production hovers around 450, 000 – 500,000 bottles. The medieval cellars and WWII bunker provide optimal aging conditions for superior wines and spirits.
The Cellars & The Bunker: A Hidden Vintage Vault
Castello di Spessa has two levels of Cellars:
- Barrel Cellars in medieval foundations
- A subterranean WWII bunker, rediscovered in 1987 connected via stairway for aging fine wines and spirits.
Experiences: Visits, Tasting & Immersion
Explore guided wine tours through medieval cellars and the bunker, pairing tastings with delectable local fare in venues like “La Tavernetta al Castello” and “Hosteria del Castello”.
- Green Theatre: Open air cultural performances
- High Vine Paths for walking amid vineyards
- A scenic heliport, and proximity to regional cultural treasures.
The Luxury Resort: Castello, Tavern, Farmhouse & Apartments
Accommodations:
- Castle Suites: Antique furnished junior suites evoking 18th century nobility and offering views over gardens and vineyards.
- The Tavernetta, Hosteria del Castello, and Bistrot II Gusto di Casanova. Three distinct yet unified culinary venues offering everything from refined dining to casual charm.
- Farmhouse on the Hill & Apartments in the Vineyards: Rustic, serene options for guests seeking tranquility.
- The estate also hosts an 18 hole “GOLF COURSE” that weaves through vineyards and wooded hills. A true blend of sports and serenity.
Gastronomy & Venue: La Tavernetta & Castle Dining
La Tavernetta al Castello offers refined gourmet dining with regional ingredients, while Hosteria del Castello and the bistro deliver informal yet elegant options. The team, guided by Chef “Antonino Venica”, tailor menus for events, galas, weddings or business.
The VINUM SPA : Therapy in Luxury
Nestled in the former stables, the VINUM SPA spans 2,000 m² and is entirely Vinotherapy focused. Includes Finnish Sauna and treatments use estate produced grape seed oil, wine creams and GRAPPATHERAPY”.
“Loretto Pali” aptly summarises: “IN WINE THERE IS JOY, HEALTH & BEAUTY
Friuli Venezia Giulia : A Luxurious Wine Land
Friuli Venezia Giulia is a jewel among Italian wine regions. Where Alpine & Mediterranean climates meet and geologic diversity yields expressive, age worthy wines. Slow food traditions, artisanal craft and captivating landscapes have established the region as a sophisticated luxury travel destination. Castello di Spessa amplifies this by blending hospitality, heritage, romance and sensory luxury, creating a destination for connoisseurs and travellers.
Castello di Spessa
At its core, Castello di Spessa is a harmonious union: historic castle, lush vineyards, masterful winemaking, restorative Spa, epicurean dining, elegant lodging, cultural experiences and events infused with souls. It offers a deeply human, naturally luxurious escape within Italy’s most graceful landscapes.
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