Dad, Mum, Daughter & Son – All in This Together

Donzella wines is a family run, independent wine merchant founded in 2002, led by Giovanni Cocchiarella and his wife Julie, based in the small market town of Olney. 

Giovanni is a former Chef and restaurateur, alongside his wife Julie, and dedicated 30 years to their restaurant Donzella, which has now been handed down to their daughter, Gabriella. 

Having run the two businesses side by side, Giovanni is now keen to concentrate on what he's most passionate about, Italian wines. 

Giovanni is from a small village in Benevento, Italy, and loves discovering small wineries on his visits to Italy, especially around his hometown. 

Giovanni takes pride in hand selecting only the best wines and is excited to share some of Italy’s hidden gems. 

In our store you will be able to find wines from the Campania, Veneto, and many more regions to offer your palate.

In 2022, Giovanni’s son Nicholas stepped in to help with the day-to-day at Donzella Wines, giving the family business a little extra push. Over the years, Giovanni has passed down much of his knowledge and love of wine, helping Nicholas take the reins successfully. These days, he’s running wine events, managing local sales and the wine menu at Locanda Gabriella, and keeping the online shop buzzing. You’ll often find him at the bar, putting together wine menus, researching new bottles, or making sure everything is running smoothly. And when things are quiet—or hectic—at the restaurant, he’s happy to roll up his sleeves and help out in the kitchen, pot wash and all!