Cantina Semonte, nestled among the enchanting hills of Gubbio in Umbria, is a winery that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. Its vineyards, set in a breathtaking landscape, tell stories of patience and dedication, producing wines that reflect a deep love for the land of Eugubio (anciently known as Eugubium, the historic term for what is now called Gubbio).
History and Philosophy of the Winery
Founded in 2008, Cantina Semonte has much deeper roots. Giovanni Colaiacovo, the current manager, continues the dream started by his father Ubaldo and his aunt Maria Carmela, who believed in the potential of the Eugubian land, inspired in part by a visionary piece of advice from Luigi Veronelli.
One of the distinctive features of the winery is its decision to cultivate Dolcetto, a Piedmontese variety introduced in Umbria by ancient Savoy officials. In addition to this variety, the winery has reintroduced the “Nebbiolo di Gubbio,” a blend of Piedmontese grapes that showcases the centuries-old connection between Umbria and Piedmont.
Wines and Innovation
Some of Cantina Semonte’s most exceptional offerings include:
- Cordaro: A blend of Dolcetto and Merlot that expresses the history of the territory.
- Monteleto: A pure Chardonnay, elegant and fresh, symbolizing the Eugubio (Eugubium) terroir.
- Costante: A pure Merlot, the winery’s latest creation, presented in May of this year.
The winery’s boldest challenge is the Metodo Classico Il Battista, produced at San Marco (680-800 meters above sea level). Thanks to a collaboration with winemaker Leonardo Valenti, this sparkling wine has put Gubbio on the map of Italian sparkling wine production, with outstanding results.
Spum.e Project: Promoting Umbrian Sparkling Wine
Cantina Semonte is also the heart of the Spum.e project, an initiative designed to promote the production of high-quality sparkling wines in Umbria. With a focus on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, the winery collaborates with other local wineries, aiming to prove that Umbria can hold its own in the Italian sparkling wine scene.
A Unique Wine Tourism Experience
Cantina Semonte offers more than just wine. With a complete wine tourism experience, guests can stay at the recently renovated manor villa and enjoy the fine cuisine at the Il Custode restaurant, managed by Beatrice Colaiacovo and Chef Marco Bistarelli. Tastings and pairings are expertly curated by sommelier Nicoletta Saldi.
In the near future, the winery will add a pool among the vineyards and a wellness area, making the experience even more relaxing and complete.
A Future Full of Success
Thanks to participation in events like Vinitaly, Cantina Semonte has earned a prominent place in the national and international wine scene. However, what makes this winery special is its ability to blend tradition with innovation, staying true to the territory and its people.
The Colaiacovo family has a strong sense of community, demonstrated through collaborations with other local wineries and the Spum.e project. The goal is not only to become a reference point for wine production but also a symbol of rebirth and development for the Eugubio (Eugubium) region.
To learn more, visit Cantina Semonte’s website.
Contact Information
Cantina Semonte
Via dell’Assino, 184, 06024 Semonte PG
Guided Tours and Purchases
Nicoletta: +39 339 2310462
Restaurant “Il Custode”
Raffaele: +39 331 3887104
Sales
Patrizio: +39 339 6047128
Email: vendite@vinisemonte.com
