|
|
 |
|
Robert Morse, the proprietor of IL GIOIELLO WINERY, purchased the estate
property in 1999. It was born out of a desire to create a place where lovers of fine wine could find exceptional value
in wines that best express the terrior of our region. He selected varietals which would thrive in the region,
and which therefore had the best potential for producing world class wines.
This picturesque, serene property is located near the border of Amador and El Dorado Counties. It is at approximately
a 2300 foot elevation, with groves of pine trees as well as ancient oaks.
IL GIOIELLO
WINERY currently produces about 4,000 cases of
wine annually, projected to increase to 10,000 cases. Most are small production wines, under 500 cases.
|
|
|
Our Philosophy
Our primary objective in starting the winery was to produce top quality wines at an affordable price. In order
to achieve this objective, we hand pick and sort all of our grapes. Many of our wines are also punched down by hand.
Our Winemaker
David Fenech, our Winemaker & Vineyard Manager, is a Graduate from the University of California at Davis with a degree in Viticulture & Enology. Before leaving UC Davis, David pursued his career in Amador County because of the dynamic wines emerging
from the Sierra Foothill Region, a blend of old & new world styles of wines. David
is adamant about keeping a balance in the vineyard and winery by merging the
analytical approach of UC Davis with a practical hands-on approach. He is expecting
to release our first Super Tuscan blend and Rhone blend later this year.
Yes - we do get snow in the winter!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Guest House in the vineyards |
Our Vineyards
The estate property has 20 of its 80 acres planted with grapes. There are 16 different vineyards
and 13 varietals. The first wine produced with estate grapes was the 2002 vintage of Petite Sirah.
Our Name
Pronounced eel--joy-ello, it literally means "the jewel" in Italian. This exactly describes to us what we think
of our winery: a small, precious jewel. It was also the name of Galileo's estate in Acetri, Tuscany were he was interned.
Intrigued? You will have to visit us to find out more about the name, and why we chose it.
|
| Dave and Robert taking a breather after punchdowns |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
IL GIOIELLO
WINERY * 22355 Lawrence Road * PO Box 570 * Fiddletown, CA 95629
|
|
|
|
