The leviathan distillery, Bonollo, is responsible for an enormous range of spirits and also the financial muscle behind this gorgeous estate. Giuseppe Bonollo could have bought land anywhere, and he decided to buy here, on the clay soils (hence Argillae) that dominate the terrain in central Umbria. Viticulture in Umbria dates back to Etruscan times and successive generations of Popes have slaked their thirst on Orvieto.
Situated northwest of the beautiful city that gives its name to the DOC, Argillae comprises 38 hectares of vines between the hilltop towns of Allerona and Ficulle. The typical ‘calanchi’ clay soils soak up the Umbrian sun as well as retaining vital water reserves necessary to withstand the dry summers of central Italy. Lorenzo Landi consults here although Giulia de Cosimo is certain of what she wants to achieve.
Grechetto remains the mainstay of viticulture although it is often blended with Trebbiano, Chardonnay and a host of other varieties. With its oily texture and intense citrus and jasmine flower nose, Grechetto balances citrus freshness with floral notes, almond and a wonderful viscosity. Think Vermentino meets Sauvignon. It’s a no-brainer with fish and pasta.
White
Grechetto Umbria IGT