Winery La Guardiense

Founded as a cooperative in 1960 by 33 members; construction of the enopoly (1961); first harvest (1963); international recognitions (e.g. Bacchus Prix 1976); first company sparkling wine (1986); internal renewal/“re‑evolution” (1997); collaboration with enologist Riccardo Cotarella (2007); opening to on‑site hospitality (2010); first winery in Campania certified SQNPI for grape sustainability (2018); acquisition of the Pugliano Experimental Farm (2020). ([laguardiense.it](https://www.laguardiense.it/))

Enhance the Sannio territory through agricultural cooperation, technical innovation and environmental sustainability: use of renewable energy (photovoltaic plant), wastewater treatment plant to minimize impact, and adoption of certified practices (SQNPI). Supports wine tourism and zoning projects (e.g. the Janare range). ([sannio.wine](https://www.sannio.wine/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/LaGuardiense_brochure.pdf))

Area: Sannio (Benevento), Telesina Valley. Varied soils: alluvial terraces, volcanic plateaus on tuff, hills on marls; vineyards around 350–450 m above sea level (terroir description per the winery). For the Sannio Coda di Volpe: 12 hectares planted; calcareous‑clayey soils and sandstones; training systems Guyot and low cordon (cordone speronato). ([laguardiense.it](https://www.laguardiense.it/collezioni/sannio-coda-di-volpe-doc/))

Among the awards mentioned: Bacchus Prix International; Oscar for Best Innovation in Wine for the "I Mille" project.