Tenuta La Palazza is set among the ancient hills of Romagna, between the towns of Forlì and Predappio, in a strategic location at the meeting point of the Rabbi and Montone river valleys. The estate surrounds one of the watchtowers built in 1481 by Caterina Sforza to defend her territories, a landmark that still reflects the area’s rich historical heritage.
Owned by the Drei Donà family since the 1920s, the estate has long been dedicated to the cultivation of Sangiovese, the iconic grape variety of the Predappio DOC. In 1980, Claudio Drei Donà left his legal career to devote himself entirely to the family estate, embarking on an ambitious transformation that would redefine its future and establish it among Romagna’s leading wineries.
Today, the estate encompasses 23 hectares of vineyards cultivated according to organic and biodynamic principles. Most are planted with Sangiovese, the flagship variety of Predappio, celebrated for its elegance and remarkable expression of terroir.
In the mid-1980s, Claudio Drei Donà also became a true pioneer of Romagna viticulture by planting the region’s first polyclonal Cabernet Sauvignon vineyard, alongside Chardonnay and Riesling. From these vineyards came wines that would become milestones in the history of Romagna winemaking—groundbreaking at the time and now regarded as timeless classics.
Mission
To capture the purest expression of our unique micro-terroir in Massa di Vecchiazzano, within the Predappio DOC, through meticulous vineyard work that respects the natural rhythms and cycles of the land, combined with a thoughtful and gentle approach to winemaking.
Vision
To be the global benchmark for Predappio Sangiovese, showcasing the extraordinary potential of this unique terroir and establishing the northernmost Sangiovese appellation in Italy among the world’s finest wine regions.
Values
Determination and passion guide our work.
Attention to detail and practicality define our approach.
Respect and innovation complete our corporate values.
