Villa Sparina: A Timeless Italian Escape in the Heart of Gavi
Imagine a destination where history whispers through ancient stone walls, where the vineyards glow golden under breathtaking sunsets, and where each glass of wine is a heartfelt tribute to....
Villa Sparina: A Timeless Italian Escape in the Heart of Gavi
Imagine a destination where history whispers through ancient stone walls, where the vineyards glow golden under breathtaking sunsets, and where each glass of wine is a heartfelt tribute to Italian soil. This is Villa Sparina—a stunning estate nestled in the rolling hills of Gavi, Piedmont. When I visited a few months ago, it felt as though I’d stepped into another world, one that held the colors and traditions of old Italy. The vibrant yellows, purples, reds, and greens of the landscape are still etched vividly in my memory, leaving an indelible mark on me.
From the moment you arrive, there’s a sense that something truly special awaits. For those looking to explore Italy beyond the usual destinations, Villa Sparina offers extraordinary food and wine and also experiences that are rich, layered, and deeply connected to the land’s heritage. Here, you don’t just visit—you feel…
Reviving a Legacy: The Vision of Stefano Moccagatta
The story of Villa Sparina’s modern success begins with Stefano Moccagatta, the current owner and a man with a clear vision. When he took over, the estate had incredible potential, but it needed someone to breathe new life into it. Stefano was that person. With a deep respect for the property’s history, he undertook an ambitious restoration, carefully preserving the estate’s traditional architecture while modernizing it to meet the standards of today’s luxury travelers and wine connoisseurs. Under Stefano’s leadership, Villa Sparina has become a destination that captures the essence of Gavi itself.
Stefano Moccagatta
Hotel L’Ostelliere: Rustic Luxury in the Heart of Gavi
One of Villa Sparina's true treasures is Hotel L’Ostelliere, a beautifully restored farmhouse that invites guests to experience the soul of Gavi. Each room is thoughtfully designed, blending rustic charm with five-star luxury in a way that feels both authentic and indulgent. Imagine waking up to endless vineyard views, with the gentle sounds of nature creating a sense of calm that’s hard to find anywhere else. It’s as romantic as it sounds—a serene escape that makes leaving almost impossible.
The rooms are thoughtfully appointed, featuring spacious, rustic bathrooms, large, inviting beds, and traditional wooden shutters on every window that transport you to another era. Every detail enhances the feeling that you’re somewhere timeless, where the past and present converge in perfect harmony. For anyone seeking an authentic escape with a touch of Italian elegance, Hotel L’Ostelliere is nothing short of unforgettable. Trust me when I say this isn’t a generic hotel experience, it’s a chance to connect with the land and its history as every detail has been thoughtfully designed to blend luxury with authenticity.
La Gallina Restaurant: A Celebration of Piedmontese Cuisine
La Gallina is Villa Sparina’s on-site restaurant, and it is an experience in itself. The chefs here have an incredible talent for bringing Piedmontese flavors to life, crafting dishes that highlight the region’s best ingredients. Each plate feels like a tribute to Italian tradition, yet with creativity and flair that make every meal unforgettable.
What truly elevates the dining experience at La Gallina, however, is the wine-pairing expertise provided by Ali Massimino, the restaurant’s dedicated sommelier. Ali does not only recommend wines, he curates an experience, guiding guests through the nuances of Villa Sparina’s wines with a passion and knowledge that’s genuinely inspiring. His recommendations are thoughtful and personalized, making every meal a journey through the vineyards of Gavi. While I always appreciate casual wine service, the old-school and uber-professional service he provided made all the difference to our dining experience. The 6-course menu with food pairings was extraordinary – from the scallops to the pasta, to the gigantic bucket of ice cream to finish off the meal – not Ali nor the kitchen team skipped a beat. You would have to ask nicely, but I think they can also hook you up with the most spectacular sunset over the vineyards as you dine.
A Setting Like No Other: Vineyard Views and Sunsets to Remember
In all seriousness though, there’s something truly magical about Villa Sparina’s location. As you sit on the terrace, surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills, it’s hard not to feel a sense of awe. The sunsets here are something to behold—watching the sky transform into shades of orange and pink over the vineyards is an experience that stays with you.
The beauty of Villa Sparina is of course in its scenery, but it’s also the way it makes you feel completely at peace, and completely present. The staff’s five-star service, the welcoming smiles, and the genuine warmth of everyone you encounter all contribute to an atmosphere that’s both luxurious and inviting.
Villa Sparina Gavi dei Comune di Gavi 2023 SAQ : 14562266 $20.85
One of the most distinctive elements of Villa Sparina’s wine is the shape of the bottle, and that’s thanks to Stefano. When taking over, he wanted to preserve history and keep the unique design for producing wines. This unique, rounded bottle design was inspired by ancient vessels unearthed during the renovation of the estate. The shape dates back centuries and serves as a tribute to the wine heritage of the region. It stands out on any shelf, a reminder that what’s inside is crafted with the same attention to tradition and detail that went into designing the bottle. (See below for the latest vintage and tasting note – available at the SAQ).
At the heart of Villa Sparina’s winemaking is their flagship Gavi dei Comune di Gavi 2023. This wine is a true reflection of the Gavi terroir, offering a taste that’s as expressive as the land itself. Made from the Cortese grape, which thrives in the limestone-rich soils of Gavi, this vintage is fresh, vibrant, and endlessly enjoyable.
The 2023 Gavi pours a pale straw color, inviting you in with aromas of white peach, pear, and a touch of lemon zest. On the palate, it’s crisp and refreshing, with layers of citrus, green apple, and a slight mineral undertone that speaks to the vineyard’s unique terroir. What sets this wine apart is its balance—there’s a brightness here that’s perfectly matched by a subtle depth. It pairs beautifully with seafood, light pastas, and the traditional Piedmontese dishes but it’s equally enjoyable on its own, a glass of pure Italian sunshine.
