Bajaj

Local historical wine annals trace the Moretti family back to 1671, but it is the most recent history that inspired the company’s name. After a fight with his brothers, Adriano Moretti’s grandfather left with his pregnant wife, their two small kids, a donkey, and no other possessions. They settled in Monteu Roero near his grandmother’s family who was known as “i bajaj” (the yawners). The nickname wasn’t given because they were idlers; instead, it represented their carefree way of working in the fi elds without haste, taking breaks to drink a glass of wine, have a snack, and sing. They knew they would never get rich; having a roof over their head and food on the table every day was enough to be happy. After studying political science and a stint in politics, Adriano decided in 2014 to solely work as a winemaker and name the winery Bajaj as a tribute to his grandparents’ way of life. His family grows and sells fruit and vegetables which are also served at their farm-to-table restaurant that showcases Adriano’s wines. They practice sustainable farming and follow the Integrated Crop Management approach in the orchards, vegetable fi elds, and in the 5-hectare (~12 acres) vineyard. Adriano’s current yearly production is about 20,000 bottles (~1,670 cases) of Arneis, Nebbiolo, Favorita, and Barbera. He works alongside experienced enologists to perfect his techniques in the cellar; but he also likes to experiment with alternative winemaking methods such as the use of amphorae.