Fifteen years still lay ahead before Italy would be unified, and more than half a century would pass before the first Fiat automobile rolled onto the streets. Yet in the very region destined to become the stage for these historic milestones, another quiet revolution began in 1846 – the art of distillation, lovingly cultivated by the Mazzetti family in the heart of Monferrato.
It was Filippo Mazzetti (1816–1855) who founded the family’s first grappa distillery in Montemagno. At the time, pomace – the noble residue of winemaking – was largely dismissed as a mere by-product, often handled carelessly and rarely selected with intention. While many winemakers overlooked its potential, Filippo saw something more: a source of an exceptional spirit – grappa.
Driven by remarkable perseverance, Filippo travelled across the region in search of the finest pomace. Despite the arduous transport conditions of the era, his journey took him beyond the immediate surroundings to the Alto Monferrato, Canavese, Langhe and Roero. What began as a logistical challenge evolved into a sensory voyage through the aromatic diversity of Piedmont. Filippo distilled his grappas in small batches, always separating pomace by origin and grape variety – a principle that remains at the heart of Mazzetti d’Altavilla’s philosophy to this day.
His son Luigi (1842–1911) continued the craft, relocating the distillery to Altavilla Monferrato and expanding its reach. Under Luigi’s son, Filippo Mazzetti (1868–1943), the family uncovered the immense sensory richness hidden within the soils and grape varieties of their landscape. Grappa became more than a product – it became a reflection of Piedmontese identity.
In the 20th century, the distillery evolved into a revered institution, upholding the traditions of Monferrato’s master distillers. Under Felice Mazzetti (1902–1981) and his son Franco (1931–2015), the company rose to prominence as one of Italy’s most celebrated and award-winning grappa producers. The distillery earned numerous international accolades, including gold medals for Mazzetti Grappa 7.0 and XO Acquavite di Vino Invecchiata 20 Anni.
Today, nearly 180 years after Filippo’s first journeys, Cesare, Nicoletta and Giorgio represent the sixth generation of the Mazzetti family. With dedication and innovation, they present a remarkable collection of single-vineyard grappas from Piedmont – including Grappa di Barolo, Grappa di Moscato and Grappa di Chardonnay, each capturing the essence of its terroir.
The pomace from these selected grape varieties is distilled in traditional copper steam stills using a discontinuous method, enhanced by modern vacuum technology that lowers distillation temperatures and preserves delicate aromas. The only ingredients in Mazzetti d’Altavilla’s grappas are the fruits of Piedmontese soil and the family’s enduring passion.
Whether classic, refined or aged, these grappas preserve the aromas, biodiversity and cultural depth of Monferrato – just as they did in Filippo’s time. Each bottle tells the story of a family devoted to the art of transformation, turning something humble into something truly extraordinary.
Mazzetti d'Altavilla
Viale Unità D’Italia 2
15041 Altavilla Monferrato (AL)
Italiy
+39 0142 926147
