Le Piane

Le Piane was founded in 1998 when the historical cellar and vineyard of Antonio Cerri was bought. The investment was made by "BOCA HOLDING AG" which attracted more than 70 international shareholders all sharing a liking for good food and wine. By planting new vines Le Piane now has 6.5 hectares of vineyards.

In the nineties, the vinologist Alexander Trolf and the vintner Christoph Künzli showed enthusiasm for the forgotten wine region of Boca and its great wines. They were convinced that this would be the right place for a high-class wine property. At that time they became acquainted to Antonio Cerri, one of the last wine- growers to produce the typical and outstanding Boca wine. His vineyard »Campo delle Piane«, with an area of 0.6 hectares, was situated above the village and meanwhile had been surrounded by a forest. Cerri produced approx. 2'500 litres of wine every year, until 1991. The site is planted with Spanna grapes, aged more than 50 years.

In view of his advanced age of more than 80 years, Antonio Cerri decided to retire, and he offered to sell his vineyard to Alexander Trolf and Christoph Künzli. They took their chance and step-by-step they acquired further small plots. Like a puzzle the property grew together and became the new wine property »Le Piane« with a vineyard area of 6.5 hectares with a possibility for extensions.

The purchased grounds were cleared and newly terraced, in cooperation with the authorities of the nearby natural reserve of Monte Fenera. The restored vineyard areas were planted with Nebbiolo vines and other vines specific to the region.
Unfortunately Alexander Trolf did not live to see this successful development of the vineyard as he died in a tragic road accident His ideas and dreams however will remain in the vineyard »Meridiana« which he replanted. The prominent yellow house therein has become the society's logo and thus symbolizes the new beginning.