Located in Castiglione Falletto, in the heart of the Barolo appellation, Pugnane Winery produces some of the most emblematic wines of the Langhe, including Barolo, Langhe Nebbiolo, Barbera d’Alba, Dolcetto d’Alba, and Langhe Chardonnay.
The philosophy of Pugnane is rooted in a simple yet fundamental belief: great wine is born in the vineyard. Careful and patient vineyard work allows the grapes to reach full maturity and express their highest quality at harvest time, a decisive moment that defines the character of each wine. This approach, combining traditional practices with modern techniques, is at the core of the estate’s identity.
The history of the winery dates back to the 1930s, when grandfather Enrico began cultivating vineyards and selling grapes. During the 1960s and 1970s, his son Giovanni expanded the family business, starting the bottling and commercial distribution of wines throughout Piedmont and neighboring regions.
The current generation, represented by brothers Enrico and Franco, brought new expertise and vision to the estate. One an agronomist and the other an oenologist, they work in perfect synergy, refining vineyard management and cellar practices while preserving the family’s deep-rooted traditions. From the 1980s onward, Pugnane Winery began presenting its wines at international trade fairs, achieving growing recognition and success.
Today, the estate covers approximately fifteen hectares of vineyards located in some of the most prestigious areas of the Barolo zone, including Castiglione Falletto, Monforte d’Alba, and La Morra. Castiglione Falletto represents the heart of the property, with eight hectares planted predominantly to Nebbiolo. Among these vineyards stands the renowned Villero cru, dedicated exclusively to Barolo and considered the crown jewel of the winery.
Most of the vineyard surface is devoted to Barolo production, while the remaining parcels are planted with Barbera d’Alba, Dolcetto d’Alba, Langhe Nebbiolo, and Langhe Chardonnay. A portfolio that reflects the winery’s deep connection to its territory and its commitment to expressing the identity of the Langhe through native grape varieties.
Between the 1990s and early 2000s, the estate expanded further with the acquisition of additional vineyards and the development of international markets, including Switzerland, Germany, Denmark, the United States, and Japan. Today, Giovanni, Enrico, and Franco continue to work side by side, blending experience and innovation while remaining faithful to the values of family, tradition, and authenticity.
Production Philosophy
“Bring great grapes to the cellar.” This guiding principle defines every aspect of Pugnane’s work. Meticulous vineyard care ensures grapes of exceptional quality, allowing the wines to express purity, balance, and character. Traditional winemaking methods are supported by modern technology when necessary, always with the goal of preserving the true essence of the fruit.
“Wine must taste like grapes,” say Enrico and Franco—a belief reflected in the aging of Barolo in large Slavonian oak casks (30–50 hl), which enhance structure and longevity without masking varietal expression. At Pugnane Winery, the true protagonist is the vineyard, where the wine is born and from which it carries, through every stage of production, the authentic character of the land and the dedication of its producers.
