Discovering Camillo Donati: The Artisan of Natural Sparkling Wines in Emilia Romagna

By | 26 December 2025

This winery, founded in 1930 by Camillo Donati’s grandfather, initially produced wine for family consumption. During those times, wine was fundamental for daily nourishment and creating a stable supply was not only practical but economically sound. The family cultivated a diversity of red and white grape varieties, fermenting them collectively.

Located near Parma in Emilia Romagna, the winery spans 11 hectares and practices organic and biodynamic farming. Notably, Camillo Donati keeps winemaking natural, using minimal additions, primarily sulfites at the onset of the winemaking process. All their wines are sparkling, known as "col fondos," as they undergo bottle fermentation without disgorging.

The wines were showcased at the VinNatur festival in Paris in November 2025.

Here are some highlighted wines:

  • Camillo Donati Trebbiano 2024
    A yellow/gold wine with a rich aromatic profile, featuring crisp apple, pear, and citrus notes. Rating: 92/100.

  • Camillo Donati Malvasia 2024
    This variant shows grapes’ aromatic qualities with fresh herbal and citrus flavors, revealing a cherry and aniseed depth. Rating: 92/100.

  • Camillo Donati Malvasia Rosa 2024
    Made from Malvasia Rosa grapes, it has bright herbal accents with cherry and cranberry flavors, showcasing excellent acidity and freshness. Rating: 92/100.

  • Camillo Donati Ribelle 2024
    A vibrant Barbera wine, bright pink red in color, with tangy cranberry and cherry fruit, alongside a spicy finish. Rating: 93/100.

  • Camillo Donati Lambrusco 2024
    This Lambrusco Maestri stands out with its vivid flavor, highlighted by a juicy finish and a hint of reductive character. Rating: 88/100.

For more information about their wines, visit Camillo Donati’s official website.

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