Heritage:
Fantini was founded in 1994 in Ortona, Abruzzo, by Filippo Baccalaro, Valentino Sciotti and Camillo De Iuliis, with the ambition to build a leading Southern Italian wine company based on quality rather than vineyard ownership. From its inception, the project followed an unconventional model, working directly with growers rather than acquiring estates, allowing rapid access to high-quality vineyard sources across multiple regions. This approach enabled significant early expansion: within a few years, Fantini had become one of the leading exporters from Southern Italy. Key milestones in the company’s evolution include its expansion beyond Abruzzo into other southern Italian regions, followed more recently by Finca Fella in Spain. Throughout this growth, Fantini has been consistently recognised, including being named “Best Italian Wine Producer” five times at Mundus Vini (including 2017, 2020, 2022, 2024 and 2026), along with other “Best Producer of Italy” awards by other leading wine guides, numerous gold medals and “wine of the year” accolades for its flagship labels.
Philosophy:
Fantini’s winemaking philosophy is driven by continuous research, innovation and precision, with a focus on translating vineyard quality into expressive, consistent wines. A dedicated R&D approach allows the team to refine techniques and anticipate market trends, including the use of small-scale microvinification to test and optimise both fermentation and ageing methods. In the winery, modern technologies are used to preserve purity and aromatic integrity, such as cryomaceration and oxygen-free pressing systems, ensuring freshness, balance and clarity. Night harvesting further protects fruit quality, reducing oxidation and maintaining temperature control from vineyard to cellar. Sustainability is integrated through precision vineyard monitoring, reduced intervention and recyclable packaging solutions, supporting a long-term approach to both environmental responsibility and wine quality.
People:
Fantini was founded by Filippo Baccalaro, Valentino Sciotti and Camillo De Iuliis, whose shared vision laid the foundation for the group’s innovative model and international growth. Today, the company is closely associated with the Sciotti family, with Valentino Sciotti continuing to play a leading role alongside the next generation, including Giulia, Alessia and Nico Sciotti. Supporting this leadership is a large, dynamic team of over 20 winemakers and agronomists, creating a strong link between vineyard management, winemaking precision and global commercial development.
Beyond the Vine:
Cycling plays a central role in Fantini’s identity, deeply linked to both its Abruzzo origins and the vision of founder Valentino Sciotti, a long-time cycling enthusiast. The vineyards sit along the Costa dei Trabocchi, one of Italy’s most iconic coastal cycling routes, reinforcing a natural connection between landscape, lifestyle and sport. Fantini has been actively involved in professional cycling for over 15 years, sponsoring international teams including WorldTour-level partnerships and its own ProTeam, while also supporting major races such as Tirreno–Adriatico. Beyond sponsorship, the group has contributed to grassroots and social initiatives, including association with cycling programs in Rwanda that provide access, education and opportunity for local communities.
