Walkthrough Tasting 11.21.24

BACKGROUND

Poderi Luigi Einaudi is nestled atop a hill in Dogliani in the Langhe, surrounded by vineyards that slope into the valleys below and offer panoramic views stretching to the Alps. The estate began with the cultivation of Dolcetto and eventually expanded to include Nebbiolo, producing both Barbaresco and Barolo. Notable among the Barolos are Terlo, Bussia, Cannubi, and, most recently, Monvigliero—a new addition introduced to celebrate the estate's 125th anniversary.

Photo Credits: Poderi Luigi Einaudi

Poderi Luigi Einaudi isn't just a winery; it's a piece of Italian history shaped by four generations of the Einaudi family. Founded by Luigi Einaudi—an economist and the first democratically elected President of Italy—this estate has been a labor of love and a symbol of dedication to the Langhe region. Even during his time in Rome, Luigi never missed a harvest, always returning to his roots in Dogliani.

Photo Credits: Poderi Luigi Einaudi - Luigi Einaudi

Luigi's vision went beyond winemaking. He believed agriculture could revive Piedmont and lead it out of the crisis during those years. In 1897, as a young man without means, he bought his first farm in San Giacomo in Dogliani; it wasn't just out of nostalgia and his origins.

Photo Credits: Poderi Luigi Einaudi - Luigi Einaudi

As a farmer and economist, Luigi Einaudi displayed intelligence and far-sightedness. During his time, he brought remarkable changes to the Langhe. To combat the devastating effects of phylloxera, Luigi used rooted grafts on American rootstock, introducing modern viticulture to the region. In 1915, he took a big step forward by creating a cellar to produce and bottle wine instead of just selling grapes. Luigi then acquired vineyards with ideal exposure, soil, and positioning to craft wines of exceptional quality. He also pioneered a unique approach to property management, entrusting tenants and their families with the land, allowing them to share in its prosperity. Einaudi went further by restoring farmhouses and providing tools like tractors, mechanical elevators, and trailers, all aimed at easing the workload and improving the lives of those working on the estate. This vision laid a foundation for success and community well-being that would last for generations.

Photo Credits: Poderi Luigi Einaudi 

After him, the company was led by his second child, Roberto, born in Dogliani, in the Farmhouse of San Giacomo. In the late 1980s, Paola Einaudi, Roberto's daughter, moved from Milan back to Dogliani to work alongside her father. With a blend of tenacity, enthusiasm, and significant investments, Paola revitalized the historic winery, bringing it new commercial success and elevating the quality of its wines. Under her leadership, the wines became known for their elegance while staying true to the region's character. Paola had a deep love for the land and the community, playing an active role in Dogliani's local life and fostering a strong connection between the winery and its roots.

Photo Credits: Poderi Luigi Einaudi - Barolo Monvigliero 125th Anniversary

Photo Credits: Poderi Luigi Einaudi 

Today, the winery is led by Luigi's great-grandson, Matteo Sardagna, who grew up walking these vineyards with his grandfather Roberto. Matteo's mission is to honor his family's values while embracing the future, bringing Poderi Luigi Einaudi's wines to a global audience. Under his care, the winery has flourished, and the wines remain true to their heritage—rich in character, reflecting the unique spirit of the Langhe.

Photo Credits: Poderi Luigi Einaudi  - Matteo Sardagna

Check out the lineup for this tasting: