Collection: Veneto: Roberto Anselmi

Anselmi: Revolutionizing Soave Classico Through Visionary Craftsmanship

Founded in 1976 by Roberto Anselmi in the heart of Soave Classico, Veneto, this pioneering estate emerged during a period when the appellation was synonymous with mass-produced, commercially driven wines. Determined to restore the dignity of his family’s winemaking heritage, Anselmi embarked on a mission to elevate Garganega - Soave’s signature grape - to its full potential, challenging the region’s prevailing norms.

Innovation in Viticulture & Winemaking
By the 1990s, Anselmi initiated radical reforms to combat declining quality. He transitioned from traditional pergola trellising to Guyot and cordone speronato (spurred cordon) systems, reducing yields and optimizing grape ripening. Meticulous canopy management and modern pruning techniques further enhanced fruit concentration. In the cellar, temperature-controlled fermentation and advanced technology were introduced to preserve freshness and complexity, marking a stark departure from industrial practices.

A Defining Moment: Breaking from Tradition
In 2000, Anselmi publicly severed ties with the Soave Classico consortium, criticizing its restrictive regulations as antithetical to quality. This bold move, outlined in an open letter, underscored his commitment to crafting wines that prioritized terroir expression over appellation conformity.

Vineyards & Philosophy
Today, the estate spans 70 hectares of prime volcanic and limestone soils within Soave Classico. While not certified, Anselmi employs organic farming practices, emphasizing sustainability and minimal intervention. The portfolio focuses on Garganega, alongside smaller plantings of Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, yielding wines renowned for their precision, mineral depth, and aging potential.

Legacy
Roberto Anselmi’s legacy lies in redefining Soave’s identity. By marrying tradition with innovation, he transformed undervalued vineyards into benchmarks of excellence, proving that Garganega could rival Burgundian Chardonnay in nuance and longevity. His wines—such as the iconic Capitel Foscarino—stand as testaments to a career dedicated to challenging conventions and honoring the volcanic soul of Soave.

Key Milestones:

1976: Estate founded, prioritizing quality over quantity.

1990s: Viticultural overhaul with Guyot training and yield reduction.

2000: Withdrawal from Soave consortium to pursue uncompromised quality.

Present: Organic practices and terroir-driven wines cement Anselmi as a visionary in Italian white winemaking.