OUR ROOTS
FOUR GENERATIONS OF ITALIAN WINE MERCHANTS
Great Grandfather Pietro Sr. and grandfather Pietro Jr. (circa 1932)The rich history of 8 Vini dates back over a century to the entrepreneurial vision of Pietro De Giuli Botta, Sr. Nestled just outside Milan in Monza, he established a thriving enterprise. During the pre-Prohibition Era, Pietro Sr. played a pivotal role in supplying the United States with bulk wine. The legacy continued with Pietro Jr., who assumed leadership at the age of 20.
Recognizing the potential for growth, Pietro Jr. embarked on an ambitious journey to expand the warehouse. This strategic move allowed for the storage of an increasing volume of bulk wines sourced from diverse regions across Italy. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of 8 Vini's enduring commitment to quality and innovation in the world of wine.
1910’s
"Amidst the backdrop of World War I, the Fratelli De Giuli Botta Winery achieved remarkable success, attaining such heights that they boasted a fleet of 'Pietro De Giuli Botta Treni' Tanker Trains. Remarkably, a dedicated railroad track led directly into the winery, showcasing the scale and efficiency of their operations during this pivotal period in history."
Train Tankers “Pietro De Giuli Botta Treni”1960’s
In the dynamic landscape of the 1960s Italian wine market, facing heightened competition, Pietro Jr. and his brother strategically decided to close operations and shift their focus to real estate. Meanwhile, Pietro Jr.'s son, Mario De Giuli Botta, in his early 20s, embarked on a journey to England to venture into Italian wine importing.
Teaming up with Clemente Guasti, a close friend of his father and renowned producer of Barolo and Barbera from Piemonte, Mario laid the foundation for C. Guasti (London) & Co. This collaboration held particular significance as the De Giuli Botta family hailed from Mergozzo, a quaint town on Lake Maggiore in Piemonte. Mario enlisted the support of his wife, Pamela, to contribute to sales and marketing, solidifying the family's imprint on the business.
The enduring partnership between Mr. Guasti and 8 Vini stands strong, offering exceptional old-world wines imported with pride. Notably, the packaging has retained its timeless character over five decades, a deliberate choice to preserve the rich heritage of this legacy.
1970’s
In the vibrant atmosphere of 1970s Paddington, London, Mario De Giuli Botta found himself on a wine delivery mission when his son, Simon De Giuli Botta, made his entrance into the world in 1973. For Simon, the founder of 8 Vini, Inc., one could say that the essence of wine flows through his veins. Presently, 8 Vini continues to import from wineries with which relationships were established decades ago.
Among these cherished connections are Schenk Group SPA, Europe’s largest bottler and a supplier to some of the prominent Pinot Grigio brands gracing shelves today. At the age of 16, Simon, under the guidance of his father, spent a month working on the production line at this winery, gaining invaluable insights into the intricacies of the bulk wine process.
Medici Ermete, renowned as one of Italy's finest D.O.C. Reggiano producers, holds a special place in 8 Vini's portfolio. The Medici family's creation, the Mederfil Lambrusco, stands as a testament to their excellence. Simon's earliest childhood memories include exploring the back of Medici Ermete's cellar, where the secret stash of Aceto Balsamico vinegar was crafted.
Another treasured association is with Pravis, a gem of Trentino, consistently adorned with 3 Gambero Rosso glasses. The Pedrini Family, stewards of Pravis, has been a part of Simon's life since he was seven, when his father, Mario, first imported their wines into the U.K. Simon fondly recalls that at the tender age of 7, his preferred wine was the Stravino di Stravino, a delightful memory that still resonates today as 8 Vini proudly continues to import this cherished label."
2010’s
"More than a century after Pietro Sr. envisioned bringing wine from farm to table, his great-grandson, Simon, founded 8 Vini, Inc. Wine Merchants, carrying forward this time-honored tradition. Committed to sourcing unique Italian wines at exceptional value, 8 Vini works directly with a diverse range of producers, from Europe’s largest bottlers to Spectator-rated estates across Italy.
"Our mantra is straightforward: 'Present the customer with the best of our products and bring their wishes to fruition, surpassing expectations in every investment.'
To realize this commitment, Simon travels to Europe monthly, seeking new opportunities and strengthening bonds with existing partners. What distinguishes us in the Italian wine business is our ability to provide customers with a premium wine unlike any other on the market. We offer quality products that grant our customers a competitive edge, enriching the success of their Italian wine portfolio. With direct relationships with wineries, bottlers, capsuling & labeling companies, we deliver a distinctive finished product ready for distribution.
Our dedication extends to assisting customers in building an Italian wine program that captures a substantial market share and positively impacts the bottom line. Over the years, we've cultivated and maintained positive, enduring relationships with major distributors and retail chains across the United States. Guided by a multicultural team of experts, we are passionate about creating products that add significant value to all our customers."
