Our story has deep roots. Since ancient times, and certainly since the Renaissance, the Gini family has been cultivating vineyards in Monteforte d'Alpone, in the heart of Soave Classico. Antonio Gini was the founding ancestor. His father had two sons: one was named Santo, and the other Antonio, in honor of our patron saint, Saint Anthony the Abbot. As a symbolic and historically significant date, we have chosen January 22, 1570, the day of celebration and joy for the wedding of Giobatta, Antonio’s son. This marked the consolidation of a family tradition and a lasting bond with this land, which continues to define us today.
In 1929, Olinto Gini was born, heir to the winemaking business founded by his father, Giuseppe. His life, marked by great sacrifices, was also filled with immense satisfactions, thanks in part to the unwavering support of his wife, Maria Pia. Known as 'Mastro Vignaiolo' for his passion and expertise, Olinto not only produced high-quality wines but also worked tirelessly to promote the Soave denomination.
Sandro became an oenologist, and within him grew a passion for research and innovation. Fascinated by nature, he focused particularly on studying indigenous yeasts, discovering that more than 100 different species were at work in his cellar. To preserve this biodiversity, he courageously eliminated sulfur dioxide in winemaking, becoming the first in the world to do so. This groundbreaking decision caused a stir and sparked widespread curiosity. The new wines produced by Sandro were purer and more enjoyable.
Claudio is in his first year of agricultural school, where he studies organic and biodynamic viticulture. It is during this year that the natural cultivation practices of yesteryear take root in our vineyards. Green manure, grassing, and respect for the woods and trees surrounding the vineyards, which are essential for biodiversity and soil fertility. With determination and foresight, the natural organic cultivation of our entire vineyard heritage continues.
In the 1980s, Sandro and Claudio took the reins of the family business. With enthusiasm and dedication, the two brothers preserved and elevated their family's winemaking heritage, leading to the creation of two exceptional crus: La Froscà in 1985 and Contrada Salvarenza in 1989.
After several study trips to Burgundy, visiting the Grandes Crus and exchanging experiences, we established exclusive high-density vineyards with 13,000 vines per hectare. The goal was to produce minimal fruit per vine, but of exceptional quality. High-altitude vineyards at 500 meters, on Monte Mirabello and Monte Serea, nestled among centuries-old forests in pristine nature, offering breathtaking views. Slowly, what is now Tenuta Scajari began to take shape.
For the past forty years, Sandro and Claudio have devoted themselves daily to tireless work in the vineyard and cellar, alongside their sister Marta and their wives, Luisella and Monica. Their mission has always been clear: to preserve and elevate the precious heritage of century-old lands and vineyards through entirely organic methods that enhance the purity and authenticity of their wines. Thanks to this commitment, the winery has become a benchmark for quality, elegance, and deep respect for nature.
After years of research and patience, the Valpolicella Superiore LE MATTOLINE and Amarone Riserva SCAJARI labels were born, later joined by Amarone Monte Serea. These wines embody the essence of Tenuta Scajari—a place of captivating wild beauty, a natural oasis of peace and tranquility, where exceptional high-quality red wines are crafted.
Today, our company has grown—just like our family. Alongside Sandro and Claudio, Francesco, Matteo, and Barbara (Sandro’s children), Letizia and Andrea (Claudio’s children), and Davide (their nephew) work together with an extraordinary team across the vineyards, cellar, and offices. Each person contributes with passion to making the GINI experience truly unique, sip after sip.
