Le Monde Winery Celebrates Decade of Excellence with Tre Bicchieri Award

Friuli's Le Monde, led by Alex Maccan, preserves winemaking traditions while expanding global reach with acclaimed Pinot Bianco.

2025-03-24

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Le Monde Winery Celebrates Decade of Excellence with Tre Bicchieri Award

Le Monde, a renowned winery in Friuli, Italy, has gained international acclaim for its Pinot Bianco. This wine has won the prestigious Tre Bicchieri award from Gambero Rosso for ten consecutive years. The winery, led by Alex Maccan, is dedicated to preserving Friulian winemaking traditions. Maccan acquired the estate in 2008 and has since revitalized it, maintaining its cultural and agricultural heritage. The winery spans 120 hectares and grows 14 grape varieties.

Located in Prata di Pordenone, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Le Monde's history dates back to the 1700s. It has been owned by notable Italian families, including the House of Giustinian and the Brandolini dynasty. Maccan, a Friulian entrepreneur, admired the property for years before purchasing it. His leadership has strengthened Le Monde's identity and connection to the region's heritage. The winery focuses on producing wines that reflect the unique terroir, characterized by limestone-rich soils.

Le Monde specializes in single varietal wines, featuring both local and international grapes. Indigenous varieties include Refosco, Ribolla Gialla, and Friulano, while international ones include Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Pinot Bianco. The Pinot Bianco has become the winery's flagship wine, celebrated for its quality and consistency. Le Monde's wines are available in over 40 international markets, sharing Friulian winemaking traditions globally. The success is attributed to a dedicated team, including winemaker Giovanni Ruzzene, sales director Massimo Furlan, and head of communication and marketing Marta Paladin Furlan.

In the vineyard, Le Monde practices slow, seasonal farming with organic fertilizers. The winemaking process is meticulous, with each parcel vinified separately. Only the best lots are selected for blending and bottling. The winery is committed to sustainability, focusing on energy efficiency and safety. Since 2015, Le Monde has held SQNPI certification, reflecting its dedication to sustainable practices.

Eighty percent of Le Monde's production is white wines, with the Pinot Bianco DOC noted for its vibrancy and balance. The winemaking process includes cold pre-fermentation maceration, gentle pressing, temperature-controlled fermentation, and aging on the lees. The Le Icone collection features Pinot Bianco DOC Alma, aged in oak barrels. Among the sparkling wines, the Pinot Nero Rosé Brut is known for its fruity and floral aromas. Le Monde's red wines, such as Refosco DOC Inaco and Cabernet Franc DOC, showcase the bold character of the Friulian terroir.

Le Monde offers guided tours and tastings from Monday to Saturday by appointment. Visitors can choose from various tasting experiences, some paired with local cheeses and cured meats. The tasting room, designed by architect Alessandro Isola, features wood, stone, Corten steel, and cork elements. Large glass windows provide views of the vineyards, enhancing the experience. The design reflects the winery's commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

Le Monde continues to invest in Friulian winemaking and local culture. A new 4,000 square meter facility is under construction, set to open in 2026. It will include a farm shop and wine bar, showcasing artisanal Italian produce. This project aims to create a welcoming space for both locals and visitors, further promoting the region's rich heritage.

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