Mitolo

In a short period of time Mitolo has become recognized as one of the finest producers in McLaren Vale.  Mitolo is a family owned business, started by and led by the founder and owner Frank Mitolo’s vision to create a range of wines of individuality, integrity and utmost quality. Whether it is in the vineyard, or in the winery, or the work of the different coopers who source and shape the diverse barrels which are used at Mitolo, each wine is nurtured and developed with a zealous passion that spares no effort  to ensure that the best of everything is brought together to make wines of purity, elegance and power.

Italian family roots inspired Frank’s early interest and enthusiasm for good food and great wine. With three earlier generations of his family working as agriculturists and entrepreneurs, it is not surprising that (while heading an international horticultural business), Frank found the energy and passion to pursue his dream of creating world-class wines.  The business was established in 1999 and a year later the first Mitolo wine was launched. It was called G.A.M.; named after Frank’s three children and the next generation of Mitolo’s, Gemma, Alexander and Marco.

The Mitolo and Lopresti families share history going back to 1999, with Frank Mitolo’s children running around the vineyard whilst Frank tries to convince Don Lopresti to part with his top Shiraz from the Chinese Block. After several visits Don relented to this ‘cheeky guy’ and never let up, and the strong bond between the two families continues to this day.

The Lopresti vineyards, situated in proximity to the coastal town of Aldinga in McLaren Vale,
make up over 200 acres of prime Shiraz, Cabernet and Grenache plantings. Started in 1975 by Don Lopresti, a Calabrian, the vineyards are fastidiously maintained by himself, as well as sons
Joe and Michael. Over time newer plantings of traditional Italian varieties such as Vermentino, Sangiovese and Sagrantino have also added intrigue to the Mitolo wines portfolio. Frank, Don, Joe & Michael continue to work closely together to produce the style Mitolo is renowned for.

Sandwiched between the Gulf St Vincent and the nearby Willunga Hills, known as the Clay Plains of Aldinga, the soils are of heavy, grey loams mixed with black ‘Biscay’ clay overlying ancient Ngaltinga formation, formed one million years ago in the Pleistocene age. Winter rains soak deep into the clay holding the moisture deep in the soil. During spring budburst strong and vigorous shoot growth is developed, providing critical shading for the developing grapes. By the start of summer, and in the final stages of ripening, rainfall is almost non-existent. The clay soils have dried out, cracking open creating positive stress on the vines as they strive for energy, concentrating fruit flavours. 

Acclaimed winemaker Ben Glaetzer is a partner in the business and the combination of his winemaking skills and Frank’s vision have led Mitolo to international recognition and acclaim.  What started out as a dream is becoming an exciting reality, and Mitolo Wines has only just begun on its journey.

“For a winery only established in 1999 and dedicated to hand-crafted artisanal wines, Mitolo has consistently been a revelation in my tastings. Thanks to owner Frank Mitolo and his brilliant winemaker Ben Glaetzer, the quality has been truly splendid.”Robert Parker, Wine Advocate, November 2005

Ben Glaetzer: 2005 Wine Personalities of the Year, Wine Advocate