History
2009: a renewed identity
Borgo Tesis received a new brand identity and new packaging in 2009. The redesign was unveiled at Vinitaly on 1 April, during the celebrations marking the 40th anniversary of the Fantinel group. Udine-based Boscolo Design Partners developed the identity with an emphasis on the distinguishing features of Friuli Venezia Giulia. The renewed range was expanded with Friulano, Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.
The 2010 vintage
Although 2010 was considered a difficult vintage in much of Italy, the harvest at Tauriano di Spilimbergo produced particularly successful Borgo Tesis whites: Friulano, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon and Chardonnay. These wines were subsequently presented at Vinitaly, where they were well received by trade professionals.
Commercial development in 2011
By September 2011, Borgo Tesis was among the Fantinel ranges gaining ground in the United Kingdom. The wines had entered the lists of hospitality businesses including Cipriani, Marriott and Hilton. They were also represented at Ristorante Rossovino da Maurizio in Rome, where tastings encouraged repeat orders from guests.
International hospitality in 2012
In July 2012, Borgo Tesis Merlot was being served aboard Celebrity Cruises vessels operating itineraries in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Canada, Northern Europe, Asia and Australia. During June and July, ship sommeliers visited the winery at Tauriano di Spilimbergo for guided tastings and an introduction to the wider producer and its wines.
Present range
The current Borgo Tesis collection comprises Friulano, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Sauvignon, Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It is presented as a range rooted in the stony landscape of Grave del Friuli and shaped by an interaction between technical expertise and attachment to the territory.
Terroir
Borgo Tesis lies in the heart of Grave del Friuli, on the plain around the winery at Tauriano di Spilimbergo. Its defining landscape is an extensive spread of stones, with the imposing Dolomites providing shelter to the north. The vineyards extend through this open, quiet setting, and the range is conceived to preserve the distinguishing characteristics of the stony Grave soils.
Winemaking
Viticulture combines a stated commitment to quality with an eco-conscious approach. A centralized ferti-irrigation system is the principal practice identified for Borgo Tesis: it is intended to maintain balanced vine development and substantially reduce environmental impact. The practice joins water delivery and controlled nutrient application within a single centralized system.
Philosophy
Borgo Tesis presents its wines as custodians of the characteristic qualities of the Grave del Friuli soils. Its approach links respect for the territory with technical competence, seeking intensity and personality while retaining the colors, aromas and flavors of the grapes. Quality is pursued alongside an explicitly eco-conscious vineyard strategy, with technology used to promote vine balance and reduce environmental impact.