Bellafonte Montefalco Rosso ‘Pomontino’

Bellafonte Montefalco Rosso ‘Pomontino’ – deep-rooted in this area’s traditions, this cuveé boasts an agility not associated with such a blend. Composed of 80% whole-berry-fermented Sangiovese and 20% Sagrantino, the Pomontino is yet another exercise of patience. An irresistable nose of pomegranate, redcurrant and cherry draws out one’s thirst. Inevitably, this magenta-hued vessel beckons one closer. In any case, elegance spreads invariably over the palette; amarena cherry, blackberry, sweet spice and blood orange bewitch. Finally, juicy and amicable tannins complement the racy acidity as a subtle salinity lingers after the finish.

Tenuta Bellafonte is an 11 hectare vineyard, roughly between 260 and 320 metres above sea-level. Nestled in the heart of Umbria, bordering the whistle-stop Torre del Colle, it has south-eastern exposure and maintains a mixture of clay, marl and rocky soils. Peter Heilbron and wife Sabina purchased the 40 hectare property (the remaining land houses olive trees and orchards) in 2007 and spent three years constructing the winery. It is energy independent; solar panels are used for electricity and heat and hot water are generated by burning vine cuttings in a biomass boiler. Heilbron treats the vines with seaweed and plant extracts; chemical fertilisers, insecticides and herbicides are not permitted. In any case, they started as they meant to go on, establishing early on  a stalwart ecological philosophy. However, they have not been granted certification due to utilising a sustainable fungicide during the rainy seasons.

Bellafonte Montefalco Rosso ‘Pomontino’ – matured for a year in large Slavonian oak barrels before a 6-month pit-stop in bottle. This medium-bodied bottle of red fruit and sunshine captures the Umbrian country-side and serves it delicately to us customers.