Blog: Forteto della Luja | Piedmont

In the rolling hills of Piedmont, nestled in charming Loazzolo, you will find a gem of wine production - Forteto della Luja. This Italian winery, which even experienced wine connoisseurs may never have heard of, rises modestly in the middle of a WWF-protected natural park. But size is not everything, and Forteto della Luja impressively proves that true mastery often lies in small, subtle nuances.

The origins of this winery date back to 1826, when it was transferred to its current location by the maternal family of the current owner Giovanni Scaglione. Historic buildings from the late 1700s and a stone cellar bear witness to the deep-rooted tradition that pervades this place. Until 1985, the focus was on growing grapes for sale, with only a small proportion being used for vinification.

The real turning point in the history of Forteto della Luja came in 1985, when Giacomo Bologna, inspired by the old tradition of Giovanni's great-grandfather, over-ripened the Moscato grapes for the Moscato Passito Piasa Rischei. This impressive wine received prestigious accolades and was published in the Gazzetta Ufficiale in 1992 as Loazzolo Spätlese DOC. A milestone that catapulted the Forteto della Luja into the ranks of Italy's renowned wine producers. The Loazzolo DOC is currently considered the smallest in Italy - a true rarity.

The name Forteto della Luja is a reminder of the surrounding forests, which are crossed by the Rio Luja and surround the estate's vineyards. Since 2007, this winery has not only been a place of winegrowing, but also an oasis for nature, certified by the WWF. Since 2011, the breathtaking surroundings have also been transformed into a teaching center for the University of Gastronomic Sciences of Pollenzo, with Giovanni Scaglione, an organic livestock farmer, taking responsibility for this natural oasis.

The size may seem tiny compared to some industry giants, but this is not a disadvantage - on the contrary. Forteto della Luja proves that true quality is often found in care, respect for nature and dedication to craftsmanship. The winery is currently undergoing an exciting conversion to organic production, and the focus remains on creating wines of impressive quality. This makes the Forteto della Luja not only a place of enjoyment, but a symbol of the union of viticulture, nature conservation and sustainable agriculture. In the peace and seclusion of this vineyard in Loazzolo, a wine journey unfolds that not only touches the palate, but also the soul. - Gerardo [TS01/24]