Location: Valdobbiadene, Italy
Farming Practices: Sustainable
Francesco Follador is a small, family-run winery perched on the steep hills of Valdobbiadene, where Prosecco is grown the hard way—by hand, on slopes, with serious respect for the land. The Follador family has farmed here for 14 generations, and their commitment to quality is as stubborn as the donkey on their logo (chosen for character, not cuteness).
They work exclusively within the Conegliano Valdobbiadene DOCG, crafting sparkling wines that reflect altitude, soil, and soul. Glera leads the charge, but Francesco insists on including lesser-known local grapes like Verdiso and Perera—varieties that are harder to grow, but worth it for the texture and lift they bring. It’s another reason the donkey fits: a symbol of patience, perseverance, and doing things the hard way because it’s the right way.
As a proud member of FIVI (the Italian Federation of Independent Winemakers), Francesco Follador stands for transparency, independence, and a deep connection to place.
Winemaking is minimal and intuitive—no shortcuts, no gloss, just clean, expressive bubbles that speak of place. Francesco Follador is Prosecco with backbone: honest, hillside-grown, and proud of its roots.