There are stories that deserve to be told because they bring together tradition, innovation, and territory. One of these is that of Ballabio Winery, founded in 1905 by Angelo Ballabio with a clear dream: to create a Classic Method sparkling wine capable of competing with the finest Champagnes, starting from a grape variety that finds its highest expression in Oltrepò Pavese — Pinot Noir.
Today, more than a century later, Ballabio stands as a benchmark in Italian winemaking thanks to the vision of the Nevelli family, who chose to dedicate themselves exclusively to the production of Classic Method Pinot Noir, highlighting the potential of a unique and naturally suited land.
The history of Ballabio is closely intertwined with that of Oltrepò Pavese. Angelo founded the winery, but it was his son Giovanni who consolidated its prestige, contributing to the creation of the area’s first Wine Protection Consortium. A tradition carefully preserved and renewed over the years, up to today’s management, which seeks to blend respect for the past with modern winemaking techniques.
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Noir Collection and the vineyard “Farfalla”
The symbol of the maison is the Noir Collection, a line of Classic Method wines that includes labels such as Extra Brut, Zero Dosage, and Rosé. All are united by elegance, freshness, and a long aging on the lees — never less than 30 months.
But it is the “Farfalla” project that makes Ballabio truly special. The name comes from a vineyard of about 1.5 hectares on the hills of San Biagio, whose cadastral shape resembles two outstretched wings. From this land are born refined bubbles, able to capture the identity of Pinot Noir with both precision and delicacy. It is no coincidence that Farfalla has become one of the most representative cuvées of Oltrepò Pavese and a symbol of Ballabio’s hallmark quality.
With its 48 hectares of vineyards cultivated without pesticides or herbicides, Ballabio embraces a sustainable approach to viticulture, respecting the environment and the unique character of each parcel. The calcareous soils and distinctive shape of the hills enhance Pinot Noir with minerality, freshness, and balance — qualities that reveal themselves in every sip.
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Choosing a bottle of Ballabio Metodo Classico means immersing yourself in a journey of passion, precision, and love for detail. The winery’s sparkling wines tell an authentic story: that of a land which, for over a century, has worked to affirm its identity on the international wine scene.
Ballabio Winery is not just a cellar, but a cultural and sensorial project that blends the best of Italian tradition with an international vision. From the hills of Oltrepò Pavese to the glass, every bottle is an invitation to discover the finesse of Pinot Noir and the magic of the Classic Method.
An address to know, cherish, and share.
