Celebrating Roberta Bricolo is a nod to her commitment to making wines that respect the heritage of Custoza in the Veneto region, while also embracing organic and sustainable practices.
In the stunning Verona area of Italy, Roberta converted her family’s winery, Cantina Gorgo, to fully organic in 2018. She combines traditional methods with fresh ideas, creating wines that pay tribute to the land and her family’s legacy.
A Legacy of Passion
Cantina Gorgo was founded in 1975 by Roberta’s parents, Alberta and Roberto, who bravely pivoted from their established careers – Roberto from a family of doctors, and Alberta from the family fuel business – to pursue their dream of winemaking.
After studying law and practicing in Bologna, Roberta felt the pull of her family’s vineyards. In 2014, she returned home to take the helm at Cantina Gorgo, guided by her parents' values and her newfound passion.
“Organic is not a choice; it is the only way that reflects our idea of making wine”
Committed to Organic Winemaking
Roberta is a staunch advocate for organic farming, transitioning the winery’s 53 hectares to organic practices by 2018. “Organic is not a choice; it is the only way that reflects our idea of making wine,” she asserts. This commitment enhances the quality of the grapes while fostering a healthier ecosystem. The minerality of Gorgo's wines tells the story of the unique Custoza terroir where grapes thrive in soils rich with ancient glacial deposits.
Tradition Meets Innovation
At Cantina Gorgo, Roberta blends old-world techniques with fresh ideas. Her flagship wine, the San Michelin, exemplifies this philosophy with vibrant floral notes and a refreshing zesty finish. “I want to make a wine with a sense of place – healthy, unique, typical,” she shares.
Looking to the Future
Roberta aims to inspire a new generation of winemakers to prioritize sustainability. “We have too much knowledge to ignore this path,” she says, emphasizing the importance of leaving a healthy environment for future generations. As Cantina Gorgo gains recognition internationally, including placements on airlines like American Airlines and Lufthansa, Roberta’s vision for the winery continues to flourish.