LocationsUNDP Albania
From Humble Beginnings to Vineyard Success: Nesti's Journey of Cultivating the Finest Wines and protecting the environment
June 20, 2023
In the picturesque countryside of Perlat, a village in Durrës municipality, where rolling hills and green landscapes converge, a hidden gem awaits. Nestled amidst this idyllic scenery lies a vineyard, decorated with magnificent grapevines that sway in perfect harmony with the gentle breeze.
UNDP Albania
In the picturesque countryside of Perlat, a village in Durrës municipality, where rolling hills and green landscapes converge, a hidden gem awaits. Nestled amidst this idyllic scenery lies a vineyard, decorated with magnificent grapevines that sway in perfect harmony with the gentle breeze.
A journey through an exquisite iron-carved door leads to Nesti's now renowned "Bello Winery". This enchanted place stands as solid evidence to one man's unwavering passion for the art of winemaking.
However, the road to Nesti's current success was not without its fair share of trials. His humble beginnings found him navigating treacherous waters, struggling to find his footing in an unforgiving industry.
But amidst the challenges, destiny intertwined with opportunity, as the UNDP's Economic Recovery and Resilience Programme came to his aide.
Nesti Bello, the owner of "Bello Winery"
UNDP Albania
The Journey of Bello Winery
The programme supported by the governments of the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, sought to reinvigorate micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, and elevate their competitive edge. Two methodologies were deployed: The Supplier’s Development Methodology and In Motion. Both were successfully applied by UNDP in Latin America and Caribbean.
Nuno Queiros, the UNDP Albania Deputy Resident Representative, stated: "These two tools are excellent resources being introduced to Albania with the assistance of our Regional Bureau for Latin America and the Caribbean and its team of experts. One of UNDP's notable advantages is its ability to connect nations with global knowledge and expertise, and we are delighted to leverage the valuable insights of our colleagues from our Panama Regional Hub. The Supplier Development Programme has been internationally recognized and has proven successful in multiple countries over the past 15 years, reflecting UNDP's extensive experience and expertise in its implementation."
The Supplier's Development Methodology works to strengthen local value chains, boost exports, and reduce imports by nurturing domestic suppliers.
Through this comprehensive methodology, trained and certified business consultants provide technical assistance to a carefully selected "value chain" involving the client company and its strategic suppliers.
Bello Winery as an integral part of the value chain led by STARMAR - a touristic complex in the Gjiri i Lalzit Bay - became a beneficiary of this transformative support, alongside 5 other local suppliers of Starmar.
The consultants from the Supplier Development Program (SDP) imparted invaluable knowledge, covering various aspects of his business operations such as financial and administrative management, marketing, sales, and customer service.
UNDP Albania
The programme in which Bello Winery participated comprised six stages: promotion, diagnosis, client company-supplier interaction, improvement plan design, implementation, and documentation & replicability.
"The programme opened doors I never thought possible," Nesti reminisces. "I was initially sceptical, but when I witnessed the dedication of the consultants, their seriousness, and their desire to truly make a difference, I knew I had found the key to unlocking my dreams."
Under the watchful guidance of the UNDP consultants, Nesti embraced a new era of possibilities. He diligently followed their expert instructions, recognizing the immense value of conducting his family business with meticulous precision. With years of experience under his belt, Nesti understood that true success hinged on unwavering commitment and sound business practices.
Under the watchful guidance of the UNDP consultants, Nesti embraced a new era of possibilities.
UNDP Albania
The consultants from the Supplier Development Program (SDP) imparted invaluable knowledge, covering various aspects of his business operations such as financial and administrative management, marketing, sales, and customer service.
Moreover, colleagues from the UNDP Regional Bureau of Latin America and the Caribbean have played a pivotal role in helping Nesti’s business and all other six forge ahead. Working hand in hand with the consultant, they provided invaluable online advice and guidance throughout the entire journey, going beyond virtual support by conducting field visits in Albania as well. Their expertise has been instrumental in guiding the entire process. Drawing upon their extensive long-term experience in various countries, they brought the best practices to Albania, tailoring it to suit the Albanian context.
Colleagues from the UNDP Regional Bureau of Latin America and the Caribbean during the field visits at Kantina Bello.
UNDP Albania
With the assistance of technical experts provided by the programme, Nesti also acquired effective communication skills and learned to leverage the power of social media for strategic publicity.
Under the guidance of additional technical expertise, Nesti also placed a strong emphasis on implementing the HACCP food safety system and adhering to the Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) protocol in both the production facilities and vineyards. These measures ensured a commitment to quality and safety throughout the entire production process.
Technical documentation, in the form of specialized technical sheets, encapsulating all technical characteristics of each wine, were designed with the help of the consultants. Technical sheets have proven to be highly valuable, as they played an important role for Bello Winery to fulfil the documentation needed to start exporting to Italy and the UK. This was a major milestone for Nesti’s business, supported by the Supplier’s Development Programme.
Equipped with this newfound expertise, Nesti embarked on a transformative journey that would permanently alter the course of his winery.
With the assistance of technical experts provided by the programme, Nesti also acquired effective communication skills and learned to leverage the power of social media for strategic publicity.
UNDP Albania
"The project investment marked a definitive turning point," Nesti asserts, his eyes gleaming with gratitude. "Thanks to their invaluable support, our reach expanded both locally and internationally. Our sales skyrocketed, and our exceptional products reached the hands of wine enthusiasts in Albania and abroad”.
Furthermore, the project helped Nesti create a comprehensive product catalogue, which will help him effectively engage with clients. The provision of three stainless steel wine barrels, with a combined capacity of 12,000 liters, will greatly enhance his production and storage capabilities. This substantial addition will serve as a significant catalyst for business growth and development.
The project helped Nesti create a comprehensive product catalogue, which will help him effectively engage with clients.
UNDP Albania
The impact of the UNDP's intervention reverberated throughout every aspect of Bello Winery, leaving an indelible mark. Nesti's enhanced online presence, powered by the influential reach of social media, fostered connections with a continually expanding audience.
Clients have taken notice of his unwavering commitment to crafting exquisite wines while simultaneously championing sustainability. Nesti stands firmly dedicated to sustainable practices, setting itself apart from the majority of wineries in the market. It produces organic wine without the use of preservatives, additives, or chemical elements that are commonly found in the widely sold wines available.
The winery became a hub of creativity, where the marriage of environmental consciousness and winemaking prowess produced miracles in every bottle.
"I used to work in solitude, pouring my heart and soul into each barrel," Nesti reflects with a sense of awe. "But now, thanks to the support my dreams have multiplied. I have two employees by my side—talented individuals who share my vision, allowing us to scale new heights."
Bello Winery's success reverberated beyond Nesti's expectations. His commitment to organic cultivation not only captured the attention of discerning wine lovers but also drew the admiration of like-minded suppliers abroad.
But Nesti did not stop there. He journeyed to forgotten vineyards, breathing new life into ancient grape varieties long lost to time. Each vineyard rejuvenated became strong evidence to his commitment to preserving heritage and cultivating a sustainable future.
Nesti's commitment to organic cultivation not only captured the attention of discerning wine lovers but also drew the admiration of like-minded suppliers abroad.
UNDP Albania
As the sun sets.
As the sun gracefully sets over the expansive vineyards of Bello Winery, Nesti raises his glass, a poignant tribute to the transformative power of vision and unwavering support.
"The assistance we received has not only changed my life, but it has also granted me the privilege of leaving a lasting legacy," he declares, a mix of pride and gratitude radiating from his words.
"Through our meticulously crafted wines, we offer the world a glimpse into the harmonious relationship between humankind, nature, and the exquisite fruit of the vine."
In a world that craves inspiration, Nesti stands tall as a visionary entrepreneur who turned his dreams into a vibrant reality.
His journey forever reshaped the landscape of his business and touched the hearts of those who delight in the flavors of his wines.
Should you wish to connect with Nesti, the visionary behind these exquisite creations, simply reach out to him through his social media platforms.
https://www.facebook.com/kantinabello
https://www.instagram.com/kantinabello/
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