Isola Augusta
In 1959, Renzo Bassani purchased Isola Augusta after falling in love with the land, having discovered and tasted two bottles of wine made by the winemaker at the time. He immediately recognised the area's natural suitability for viticulture and began renovating the homes of the local peasants. Bassani also renewed the old vines, setting the stage for the production of exceptional wines. The winery, nestled in the heart of Friuli-Venezia Giulia's clay soils, quickly became a beacon of innovation. He replaced many chemical interventions with natural, physical processes and was a pioneer in introducing cold fermentation to the region.
The estate is located near Isola Augusta, or "Augusta Island," a name rooted in local legend. It is said that, in ancient times, the land was surrounded by the rivers Tagliamento and Stella, creating the illusion of an island.
Since its founding, the estate has remained in the Bassani family, and today, in the third generation, Jacopo continues to manage the vineyards with a focus on sustainability. Under his stewardship, the estate has significantly reduced its environmental impact, replacing nearly all chemical treatments with organic alternatives. Since 1990, the entire facility has been heated naturally using geothermal energy, and in the early 2000s, the company achieved energy self-sufficiency, all while maintaining zero emissions.
A standout wine at Isola Augusta is the Schioppettino, or "little gunshot," a unique and exceptional alternative to Pinot Noir.