2016 Tenuta Bellafonte Sangrantino 'Collenottolo'

100% Sagrantino grapes from vineyards near Bevagna, Umbria at an altitude of  853-1,050 feet above sea level with southeastern exposure. The grapes begin vinification while still whole through spontaneous fermentation. Maceration on their skins lasts about fifteen days. The wine then ages in large Slavonian oak barrels for thirty-six months and then a few months in bottle before release.  A different interpretation of a big wine, with notes of lavender as well as preserved black fruits and wild red berries, which are all interlaced with sweet spices and aromatic herbs. Full-bodied with strong tannins. Decant this to enjoy now or cellar for another 15-20 years. 

Peter Heilbron, a Milanese-born executive from the food and beverage sector, fell in love with Umbria’s calm setting while he was working for Nestlé. After a few years as CEO of Martini & Rossi, then Heineken Italy, Peter decided to act on his passion for the unique terroir of Montefalco and Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG, a powerful new star in Italian wine. For Peter, Bellafonte is a dream come true; he had always had the desire to interpret a territory and wine with ancient roots in a new way. He purchased 74 acres (30 hectares) close to Bevagna, in one of the region’s most untouched, pristine landscapes. The estate was built in order to have complete energy balance and minimal environmental impact, with photovoltaic panels and a biomass heater which also utilizes the crop residues. The entire property aims to blend into the landscape, with an underground winery and cellars and minimal impact on the environment.: no damage, no waste; even the residues of pruning are employed to produce energy. The winery itself rests on a stainless steel and stone structure in direct contact with the rocky soil, and enjoys ideal ventilation thanks to underground conduits that circulate outside air and ensure naturally cool temperatures. Hot air exits the winery through two massive chimneys. In Peter’s words “We wish to create a great wine, which respects both nature and tradition, by interpreting the natural exuberance of Sagrantino grapes in an elegant and refined way.”