Winery of the Week: Az. Agr. Vigna ’800 di Gianfranco Elampini
Mariam Chikadze
A Living Tradition in the Heart of Valpolicella, Italy
Winery of the Week: Az. Agr. Vigna ’800 di Gianfranco Elampini
A Living Tradition in the Heart of Valpolicella, Italy
Welcome to Vigna ’800, a family-run winery nestled in Negrar di Valpolicella, Veneto. Founded in 2001 by Gianfranco Elampini, the estate carries forward a simple yet profound philosophy: “to produce good wine using grapes from our own land, just like it was done in the past.” Every bottle is a tribute to family, tradition, and the timeless beauty of Valpolicella’s terroir.
The story of Vigna ’800 begins with a piece of history – an engraved stone from the 1800s discovered in the vineyards, inspiring the winery’s name. For Gianfranco, making wine is not just a craft but a way to preserve his father Gino’s teachings and honor the land that sustains his family.
From vineyard to cellar, the process reflects respect for tradition. Grapes such as Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, and Croatina are cultivated exclusively on the estate. Amarone and Ripasso wines are patiently aged for at least two years in French oak barriques and tonneaux, while fresher expressions like Valpolicella, Garganega, and Rosé Spumante are bottled young to preserve their vibrant character. Each wine is nurtured with care—“like raising children,” as Gianfranco describes it.
Visitors to Vigna ’800 are welcomed into a warm, family-like atmosphere. Tasting experiences take place in the evocative barrel cellar, where guests can savor Ripasso, pure Corvina, and Amarone Riserva paired with local specialties like homemade breadsticks and aged Grana cheese. Tours are offered in Italian, English, and German, creating an open door for wine lovers from all over the world.
For those seeking wines that embody history, dedication, and a true sense of place, Az. Agr. Vigna ’800 di Gianfranco Elampini offers more than just a tasting – it offers a journey into the heart of Valpolicella.
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