Ettore Germano

The Germano family has farmed vineyards in Serralunga d'Alba since 1856, serving for over a century as growers who sold their fruit to larger regional producers. Ettore Germano established the eponymous winery in 1975, shifting the family business toward estate bottling and commercial sales. Ettore was particularly respected in the local community for his technical mastery of vine grafting, which he utilized to improve the quality of the family holdings. His son, Sergio Germano, took over the management of the estate in the 1980s and 1990s after completing his studies at the oenology school in Alba. Today, the winery is managed by Sergio and his wife Elena, with their children Maria and Elia representing the fourth generation of the family involved in the cellar and vineyard operations.

The estate manages approximately 20 hectares of vines divided between two diverse Piedmontese terrains. Ten hectares are situated in the Barolo zone of Serralunga d'Alba, where the calcareous and marly soils produce highly structured Nebbiolo. These holdings include prestigious Cru sites such as Cerretta, Prapò, Lazzarito, and a small parcel in Vigna Rionda. The family also manages ten hectares at higher altitudes in Cigliè, located in the Alta Langa region. This area is characterized by limestone-rich soils and a cooler microclimate, making it ideal for the cultivation of white varieties and grapes for sparkling wine. Farming is conducted under organic protocols, with a focus on biodiversity and soil health maintained through the use of green manure.

Ettore Germano is noted for a technical and experimental approach that produces a wide variety of wine styles. The winery is a significant producer of Alta Langa DOCG, crafting traditional method sparkling wines from Pinot Nero and Chardonnay that spend at least 30 months on the lees. While the Barolo wines are made using traditional long macerations and aging in large oak botti, the winery has also found success with non-traditional varieties. The Hérzu Riesling, grown in the high-altitude Cigliè vineyards, is frequently cited as one of the premier examples of the grape in Italy. The portfolio also includes local specialties like Nascetta and Barbera d'Alba, reflecting the diverse terroir of the family holdings.