Cantina Martinelli (Francesco Martinelli - Soave, Veneto)

Francesco Martinelli is a passionate, natural wine producer based in the heart of the Soave Classico area in Veneto. With vineyards inherited from his grandfather, Francesco has chosen to work against the cooperative-driven mainstream of the region, prioritizing terroir expression and purity over yield. Since founding the current project around 2016, his vision has been to produce authentic, mineral-driven Garganega.

• Radical Naturalism: Francesco practices organic and biodynamic farming on basaltic (volcanic) soils, never using pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. Yields are kept low to maximize concentration.

• Low-Intervention Cellar: Grapes are hand-harvested and undergo spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts. The wines are typically unfiltered and unfined, with minimal (or no) sulfur addition.

• Signature Style: His focus is on Garganega (the Soave grape), producing wines that are fresh, drinkable, savory, and highly mineral, often involving extended lees contact and sometimes skin maceration (orange wines).

Retailers & Distribution

Francesco Martinelli's wines are highly sought after by natural wine distributors:

• VinNatur: The winery is a proud member of the VinNatur association, a key indicator of its natural wine philosophy.

• RAW WINE: His wines (like Il Gigante and Leviatano Pét-Nat) are typically featured by retailers and importers that specialize in the RAW WINE market.

• Specialized Online Shops: Look for retailers in Italy, Germany, and the UK that focus on organic, biodynamic, and natural Italian wines.