The Cavagna di Gualdana and Piccinelli families acquire Tenuta del Pizzolo: a new chapter for Oltrepò Pavese

The Cavagna di Gualdana and Piccinelli families have finalized the acquisition of Tenuta del Pizzolo, a winery located in the hamlet of the same name in Santa Giuletta (PV). The estate, managed until now by Emilio Moroni and his family, covers 16 hectares and is home to a rich variety of grape types: from Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Merlot to Croatina, Uva Rara, and Muscat. Over the years, Tenuta del Pizzolo has stood out for the quality and authenticity of its wines, which are a faithful expression of the territory. The investment by the Cavagna di Gualdana and Piccinelli families stems from the recognition of this value, combined with the favorable position of the vineyards on the first hills of Oltrepò.

Management now passes to two families with solid roots in the agricultural and wine world. The Cavagna di Gualdana family, farmers for generations and active in the Voghera plains, are joining forces with the Piccinellis, who already own a winery in Chianti.

“We intend to innovate within tradition. We believe in the great potential of Oltrepò and its wines, and Tenuta del Pizzolo is an excellent example,” stated Gilberto Cavagna. “My family is originally from this area; we recognize its opportunities and wanted to commit ourselves personally, with passion and expertise, to produce great quality wines ourselves, starting with Pinot Noir—the excellence of this area—following in the footsteps of the work done by Emilio Moroni.”

Giuseppe Cavagna highlighted the link between the operation and existing agricultural activities: “This operation strengthens our family’s bond with the territory—as we are already active in the plains with farms—in a contiguous sector of interest, also due to possible synergies with our La Duronetta agritourism in Voghera.”

For Paolo Emilio Piccinelli, the goal is clear: “This is not a simple acquisition, but the meeting of two philosophies that place product quality and respect for the terroir at the center. Our commitment will be to safeguard the historical heritage of this winery while investing in a path of sustainable growth.”

Emilio Moroni will continue to collaborate during the transition phase, ensuring the transfer of knowledge and traditions. Working alongside the new owners will be agronomist Claudio Giorgi and enologist Mario Maffi, who offered friendly support during the startup phase.

The 2025 harvest is predicted to be of excellent quality. The first wines from the new management—a Pinot Noir, a Chardonnay, and a Muscat Passito—are expected on the market in 2026. Subsequently, more structured labels will arrive, including barrique-aged wines and a “Riserva” made from Uva Rara and Croatina. There will also be a Metodo Classico sparkling wine, “Voloire,” dedicated to the Horse Artillery Regiment in which several members of the two families served. “It is currently aging on the lees and will be ready for upcoming celebrations,” added Pier Paolo Piccinelli.

The operation was handled by the Bipart law firm in Milan and the Muzio notary firm in Voghera.