THE POLLARA FAMILY

Principe di Corleone is not just a company but a true cultural heritage preserved over time by the Pollara family

THE POLLARA FAMILY

Principe di Corleone is not just a company
but a true cultural heritage preserved over time
by the Pollara family

For over a century, Principe di Corleone has been a cornerstone of the identity of Sicilian wine, a historical piece that cannot fail to be mentioned, both with regard to the island's winemaking tradition and, above all, to the innovation of the whole heritage of practices and knowledge that constitutes viticulture in Sicily today. The history of the Pollara family coincides with the history of wine in Sicily - at least from the post-war period onwards - and, in particular, with the history of an entire socio-economic movement which from the 80s up to today has given new life and prominence to this sector, thanks to the protection and promotion of the Sicilian wine uniqueness. A modernization process that brings with it a new system of values and production policies based on respect for the land and for the different types of vines planted, on environmental but also socio-economic sustainability: a virtuous circle in which family businesses and communities farms become a single actor at the service of progress and high quality standards of wine and, therefore, of life. With the entry into the field of a new generation of farmers and communicators, the Pollara family, alongside many other realities present in Sicily, become protagonists and promoters of the Made in Sicily products and lifestyle in the world.

A STORY OF A GREAT PASSION

After World War II, significant changes swept through the agricultural landscape, spurred by reforms and the gradual decline of large estates. This era ushered in a fresh approach to agricultural entrepreneurship, one that prioritized the cultivation of high-quality native produce. The advent of IVICOR, an acronym of Industria Vitivinicola Corleonese, played a pivotal role in this transformation. IVICOR not only facilitated the purchase of premium grapes but also enabled winemakers in the Corleone area to process them. These grapes included esteemed varieties such as Nero d'Avola, Catarratto, and Chardonnay, thus laying the foundation for Sicilian wine to gain global recognition.The incorporation of modern cultivation and refrigeration techniques along with the meticulous processes of letting the wine age in barrels and then bottling it, emerged as indispensable components in preserving the sensory qualities and identities of the grapes. These innovations paved the way for the Pollara family to take a significant leap forward in production, culminating in the official establishment of the Principe di Corleone brand in 2004. The brand's name itself carries a nod to its historical roots in feudal activities, from the agricultural cultivation, through the meticulous winemaking and aging processes within the cellar, all the way to the administrative offices and the dedicated wine tourism area. Over the last two decades, the company experienced a continuous evolution in step with the changing trends of the industry. In 2021, a pivotal moment occurred with Principe di Corleone's participation in the SOStain Project, marking the company's commitment to gradually transition their entire production to an organic regime. This transformative journey is expected to reach its culmination with the harvest of 2024. It serves as a testament to the winery's dedication to a future where the wine industry is inextricably linked with environmental and social sustainability, all the while celebrating the unique territory where it stands.

THE PEOPLE

The Pollara family is a tightly-knit group of professionals bound together by their deep love for their land and its cherished traditions, all while maintaining a keen eye on the future.

Since 1892, four generations have taken turns at the helm of the Principe di Corleone company. Vincenzo Pollara, together with Giuseppe Diesi and the consultant Vito Giovinco, organizes the work in the cellar, while Lea organizes the wine tourism and administration activities. After years of study and experience in the field, Vincenzo's children also decided to dedicate themselves completely to the family business, working towards the implementation of modern technologies within the production activity, activating, at the same time, more modern and effective.

Leoluca, the eldest son, is the driving force behind the company's marketing efforts. He tirelessly promotes the Principe di Corleone brand on the international stage, both by making the most of the power of social media and by actively participating in major industry exhibitions worldwide. Pietro, armed with his degree in agricultural sciences from the University of Palermo and specialized training in viticulture from Asti and Alba, has chosen to carve his path in corporate agronomic management. He dedicates himself to the meticulous care of the vineyards, overseeing the harvest, and studying the ripening curves. Another key person is Bernardo Cortimiglia, who lends his expertise to the Pollara family as the commercial director of Principe di Corleone.

The efforts of this management team are a testament to the contributions of past generations, notably Leoluca and Pippo Pollara, who sadly passed away in 2016 and 2007, respectively. Pippo, in particular, co-owned the cellars alongside Vincenzo and Lea and his unwavering belief in the company played a pivotal role in expanding the product's reach in the 1990s, especially in foreign markets, and securing prestigious awards along the way.

THE CORPORATE MISSION

Principe di Corleone's mission is rooted in the pursuit of crafting wines of exceptional quality and authenticity. Their wines are not just beverages; they are a reflection of a unique land and a celebration of the agricultural heritage of rural communities.

Across generations, the Pollara family has consistently strived to showcase the agricultural potential of the Corleonese area while infusing it with modernity and innovation. Their commitment to nurture and give back to the community and the environment is deeply ingrained in their family business policy, which extends to the care and support of their activities and the enhancement of the quality of life for those around them. Four generations have passed since Giuseppe Pollara founded the company, and today, his descendants, Vincenzo and Lea, proudly follow in his footsteps. Their journey is guided by an enduring love for wine and agricultural culture. Principe di Corleone now produces wines whose success is a resounding testament to the value of embracing one's roots and striving to make your name renowned for strongly believing in values both locally and across the globe.