That of 'Torraccia del Piantavigna' is a story that dates back to the early 1950s, when Pierino Piantavigna planted a small vineyard in the hills of Ghemme, near the 17th century castle of Cavenago. The name of the winery, coined many years later and inspired by the passionate life Pierino spent between the rows of his vineyard, derives from the appellation 'Torraccia' given to a hill, particularly dear to Piantavigna, of exceptional exposure and almost circular shape that lies just north of Cavenago Castle. The presence of the old castle tower, a real 'torraccia' due to its state of abandonment, is another reason for the company name. It was Alessandro Francoli, president of the Distillerie of the same name and grandson of Pierino, who created in 1997 what has now become a company recognised in Italy and abroad for the quality of its wines, which are modern but absolutely respectful of the traditions of the territory. Torraccia del Piantavigna is located in Ghemme, in Upper Piedmont, at the foot of Monte Rosa, one of Italy's most emblematic mountains. With an area of 40 hectares cultivated with native vines of great tradition such as Nebbiolo, Vespolina and white grape varieties as per the Production Regulations, the company vinifies, refines and bottles, directly in its cellars, red, white and rosé wines of great quality, among which stand out excellences such as Ghemme and Gattinara D.O.C.G. The current generation at the helm of the winery learns from grandfather Pierino's experience not only in producing wines of well-established quality and elegance, but also in their aptitude for respecting and developing essential values such as the Territory, the Community and the Environment. As proof of its commitment to environmental protection and preservation, Torraccia del Piantavigna received the prestigious Eco-friendly award of the Italian Touring Club in 2014, 2017 and 2018. The Francoli family still owns, as always, the majority share in Torraccia, however, since 1 February 2015, ownership has changed with the entry of the Ponti family, also from Ghemme and owner of the leading Italian company of the same name in the production of vinegars and preserved vegetables, which has acquired an important share. This is certainly a logical step for the company as the Ponti family has collaborated with Torraccia from the beginning, having left the management of its prestigious vineyards to a joint venture company owned by the two families.