Tucked away in the heart of Tuscany, near the charming town of Montespertoli, lies a hidden gem - Fattoria Bonsalto. This family-run winery is a testament to the region's winemaking heritage and a passion for crafting exceptional wines.
The story of Fattoria Bonsalto is one of tradition and innovation. It started in the seventies when grandfather Azelio felt a pull back to his homeland and bought the farm. They’ve been making wine here for over fifty years now, although much of it was initially sold in bulk to the local co-operative. In 2021, Azelio’s son Paolo, convinced of the quality of their plots, decided to up their game and start bottling their own wine. One taste of these and you’ll realise this was a no-brainer.
The wines produced at Fattoria Bonsalto are a true celebration of the local grape varieties. In addition to Sangiovese, which has its own authentic expression here, there are some rare, and virtually unknown varieties - Colorino, an outstanding Malvasia Nera, and Boggione. No, we’d never heard of it before either, but it’s delicate, juicy with a fascinating fruit profile.
Bonsalto’s microclimate is unique. Vineyards are positioned on a south/south-eastern facing slope surrounded by woods, which shelters them from the wind, and a lake to the east. This ensures slow maturation of the grapes. The soil is clay and alluvial and provides drought protection during the long hot summers.
Fermentations are spontaneous, using wild yeasts only; maceration with skins is well-judged, as is the maturation process. Different vessels are deftly chosen to suit each variety and the style of wine intended: steel, concrete, wood or ‘cocciopesto’ (terracotta) amphorae.
Bonsalto are making truly elegant, authentic wines that are worth discovering for yourself. A region best known for its reds but their white was equally revelatory. Wines that speak of the terroir, and are full of aromatic detail. They’re about subtlety and elegance, and the whole range show the skill of a phenomenal winemaker.
Available Wines
Bonsalto is a blend of mostly Sangiovese with some Colorino and a small amount of Malvasia nera. It is matured in stainless steel, and small amounts of coccipesto amphorae and old wood. Fresh, youthful and vibrant, there is lots of juicy red berry fruit, along with floral notes and lovely ripe acidity. Incredibly drinkable.
Declivio is 100% Malvasia Bianca and offers a refreshing, aromatic experience. It is macerated on the skins for 20 days, then matured in steel and concrete for 6 months, before spending 10 months in bottle prior to its release. There are notes of mandarin, apricot and citrus fruit that combine with ginger, honey and floral aromas. It has a seductive texture, which is moreish and saline on the finish.
Sette Grazie’ is made solely from Malvasia Nera, which is quite an unusual find. Pretty, floral with hints of black pepper and mediterranean spice. There is incredible energy here as well as good acid/tannin balance behind the delicate attack. It really is quite something.
‘Primo Marzo’ is made from 100% Boggione, an ancient and rare variety which is being revived thanks to research and investment. It is distinctive and delicate, with blackcurrant fruit, which is herbaceous and savoury. It is juicy, yet subtle and unlike any other variety. There is plenty of structure and intensity, along with the signature elegance.
Sopralago is a pure and authentic expression of Sangiovese. All the fruit comes from their oldest vineyard. It is also the only wine that sees 20% new wood, which is expertly integrated. This is a softer, more generous expression with intense flavours of dark fruit, exotic spice and floral notes. The minerality and tension comes through on the finish. A real wine to savour.
