The Girelli Brothers of Montonale: A story of resilience, tradition, and family
On the sun-drenched shores of Lake Garda, where vineyards whisper tales of centuries past, the Girelli brothers have forged a remarkable legacy at Montonale. Their story is one of perseverance, tradition, and an unbreakable family bond that has not only revived their ancestral lands but also elevated Lugana wines to new heights.
A legacy nearly lost
The Montonale story began in the early 20th century when Francesco Girelli cultivated vineyards in Desenzano del Garda. Over time, his son Aldo expanded the estate, producing wines that resonated with locals and travelers alike.
Their signature red, La Conta, remains the only red wine they produce - a testament to their unwavering dedication to tradition. Yet, like many small family vineyards, Montonale faced its share of challenges.
By 1998, most of the Girelli family’s vineyards had been uprooted. The last harvest was thought to mark the end of a proud tradition. But fate had other plans. Luciano Girelli, driven by an unshakable passion for his roots, rekindled hope when he inherited two hectares of vineyards from a great-uncle.
The revival: A family united
With the vineyards restored, the next generation of Girellis stepped in to shape Montonale’s future. At the helm was Roberto Girelli, a young man with big dreams. At just 20 years old, Roberto oversaw his first harvest in 2002, bottling 800 bottles under the Girelli label. The wine, eagerly embraced by family and friends, was a glimmer of what could be achieved with hard work and vision.
Roberto’s determination led him to study viticulture and oenology in Verona, where he deepened his understanding of winemaking. By 2005, joined by his brothers Claudio and Valentino, Roberto had expanded the family vineyard and laid the foundation for what Montonale is today - a beacon of excellence in Lugana.
The Power of Family Bond
The strength of Montonale lies in the unity of the Girelli brothers, each contributing their unique talents:
Roberto, the winemaker, is the creative force behind Montonale’s wines. His deep respect for the land and dedication to the craft have earned Montonale international acclaim.
Claudio, the financial mind, ensures the estate’s sustainability and growth.
Valentino, the vineyard guardian, tends to the vines with precision, using sustainable practices that reflect the family’s commitment to the environment.
Together, the brothers share a singular goal: to create wines that honor their heritage while carving a future for Lugana as a world-class wine region.
Resilience rooted in tradition
What sets the Girelli brothers apart is their ability to draw strength from their family’s history while adapting to the demands of the modern wine industry. Their resilience is evident in every aspect of Montonale’s operations:
Preserving the land – The brothers have restored the clay-rich, calcareous soils of their vineyards, cultivating them with care to enhance the grapes’ natural minerality and finesse.
Sustainability as a core value – From energy-efficient winery designs to integrated farming practices, Montonale exemplifies environmental stewardship.
Commitment to quality – Even in challenging years, the brothers prioritize quality over quantity, often reducing their crop by up to 50% to ensure only the finest grapes are used.
Tradition meets innovation
While honoring their roots, the Girelli brothers are not afraid to innovate. Their use of indigenous yeasts for fermentation and extended aging on fine lees enhances the expression of their wines, showcasing Turbiana’s potential as an age-worthy grape.
The Montonale winery, powered by renewable energy, is a testament to their forward-thinking philosophy. By blending tradition with innovation, the brothers have positioned Montonale as a leader in Lugana’s winemaking renaissance.
Montonale: A testament to family and heritage
For the Girelli brothers, Montonale is more than a business—it’s a tribute to their ancestors and a legacy for future generations. As Roberto Girelli reflects:
“Every bottle we produce carries the story of our family, our land, and the passion that keeps us united. We are custodians of this heritage, and we strive to share its beauty with the world.”
Their wines, from the vibrant Lugana DOC to the complex Orestilla, are not just a reflection of Lugana’s terroir—they are an embodiment of the Girelli family’s resilience, dedication, and love for their craft.
A legacy of resilience
Montonale’s story is a powerful reminder that resilience and tradition, when paired with innovation and family unity, can overcome even the greatest challenges. The Girelli brothers have transformed a near-forgotten vineyard into a symbol of excellence, ensuring that the name Montonale will endure for generations to come.
At Porcalorca, we seek out Italy’s hidden gems - family-driven wineries like Montonale, where every bottle tells a story of resilience and craftsmanship.
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