The Borgo’s roots (little hamlet) date back to the 17th century: an ancient agricultural settlement that today, thanks to a unique microclimate of Adriatic breezes and the protection of the Julian Prealps, produces wines of extraordinary flavor, born of the Ponca (the local Eocene marl) and an enlightened philosophy that puts nature at the center.

The Enoteca honors the wines of Collio and Isonzo, in a charming setting where art celebrates the region and a centuries-old history.

Three Generations of Beauty and Love for the Territory

The modern history of the Borgo begins in the 1960s with Luciana Bennati, daughter of Arnaldo Bennati, who made the Hotel Bauer in Venice legendary in the 1930s. Luciana chose these lands to found the Colmello di Grotta winery, instilling a great passion in it.

Today, the reins are held by her daughter Francesca Bortolotto Possati and her granddaughter Olimpia. Under their guidance, the winery has become a sustainable laboratory of excellence: in 2020, the conversion of all 14 hectares to organic farming was completed, introducing amphora aging and giving rise to the “Cence” line (which in Friulian means “Without”).

The “Cence” Line: Wine Without Compromise

“Cence” represents the purest and most innovative soul of the company. A “no superfluous chemicals” philosophy translates into iconic labels such as the Cence Merlot and the Macerata Ribolla, authentic expressions of a respected terroir, valorized in its purest essence.

The Restoration of the Enoteca: A Dialogue Between the Fogolâr and Venetian Style

Opened in 2025, the new Enoteca is the result of a masterful restoration personally overseen by Francesca and Olimpia Bortolotto Possati. The furnishings, many of which they designed themselves, were handcrafted by Friulian and Venetian artisans, creating an aesthetic bridge between the lagoon and the countryside.

Inside, the enveloping atmosphere of the period residences revolves around the “fogolâr”, the traditional Friulian fireplace, reinterpreted with touches of contemporary design. Outside, the hamlet courtyard invites slower pace, offering spectacular settings for lunches and dinners where time seems to stand still.

Excellent Local Flavors

The Enoteca is more than just wine, it’s a gastronomic journey through local excellence. Along with the glasses, they serve:
• Crostini, tapas and platters featuring the famous D’Osvaldo hams and cheeses from the Latteria Sociale di Cividale.
• Seafood specialties from Friultrota, Cape Trieste, and artisanal bread from Panificio Pagna.
• Traditional Frico cheese and Gubana cake, a dessert emblematic of Friuli Venezia Giulia.
An identity that continues in the refined table setting with handmade ceramic plates from the Friulian Ceramiche Fabbro.

Host Lorenzo guides guests through a tasting of the house wines—from Ribolla Gialla to Pinot Grigio in amphora—as well as a refined selection of European gems discovered by Olimpia during her travels.

Beyond the Glass: Charming Rooms and Wine Tours

The world of Borgo Colmello offers a complete experience: in addition to the wine shop, the hamlet offers six designer rooms, spaces for private events, and the opportunity to visit the nearby historic winery, which still retains period furnishings and an old-world charm.

The Secret

The Bortolotto Possati family has always been committed to promoting contemporary art. This tradition is continued by having the winery’s new labels designed by Alfonso Clerici, a multifaceted artist who spent a pivotal period of his formative years in New York between the late 1970s and early 1980s, where he frequented Andy Warhol’s Factory and met artists such as Julian Schnabel and Larry Rivers.

Useful Info

Locanda Borgo Colmello
Strada della Grotta 8
Farra d’Isonzo
34072 Gorizia
Tel. +39 3762707147
borgo@borgocolmello.it

By the glass: from €5
Tasting: 4 wines + 4 cicchetti from €30
Tasting + cellar tour: from €50
Tapas: from €4
Platters: from €12
Open Wednesday to Sunday, 11:00 am – 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Rooms: from €150 with organic breakfast included