History
The history of Villa Sandi began in the early 1920s when Mario Polegato purchased vineyards and entered the wine market. After World War II, his son Divo and wife Amalia developed the business. Their sons, Mario (an oenologist) and Giancarlo (financial expert), joined, strengthening growth. In the late 1970s, they acquired the Palladian-style Villa Sandi, dating to the early 1600s, and restored it. By the 1980s, they pioneered Prosecco exports and used underground galleries for classic method sparkling wines, launching the successful Opere brand. Giancarlo expanded globally, while Mario founded Geox. Since the 2000s, they expanded in DOC/DOCG Prosecco areas. Cartizze La Rivetta won Tre Bicchieri from Gambero Rosso in 2010 and for 12 consecutive years. Now, fourth generation Diva and Leonardo continue the legacy.
Viticulture Philosophy
Villa Sandi cultivates 65 hectares, including 10 in Prosecco di Valdobbiadene and 40 in Crocetta del Montello, with vines aged 7-45 years for Glera and 10-30 for varieties like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, and Raboso Piave. Vineyards leverage Trevisan hills' breeze and sunlight for still and sparkling wines, including crus. Emphasizing sustainability, the estate holds Equalitas-Cantina Sostenibile certification, focusing on low environmental impact, biodiversity protection, and practices like using a hydroelectric plant for clean energy and irrigation.
Winemaking Techniques
Villa Sandi blends traditional and innovative methods. For Prosecco (Charmat), must ferments at controlled temperatures (59-61°F) with added yeasts before bottling. Classic method sparklings like Opere refine in underground cellars for 36-72 months, using soft pneumatic pressing, first racking, and controlled fermentation. Reds and still wines age in French oak barriques (400 new annually), reused based on style. Innovations include the Claxa insulating bottle system.
Critics and Journalist Praises
Villa Sandi's Cartizze La Rivetta has earned 14 Tre Bicchieri awards from Gambero Rosso and was selected by Wine Spectator. The Prosecco received 90/100 from Natalie MacLean for its crisp, lively profile. The estate ranked in the Top 100 World's Best Vineyards (2022) and Top 100 Premium Wine & Spirits Brands. Critics praise its sparkling excellence and sustainable commitment.
