Prati al Sole "Lambro" Emilia-Romagna, Italy 2024

FROM SELECTIONATUREL:

THE WINE: 35% Lambrusco Barghi, 35% Lambrusco Grasparossa with some Marzemino and Uva Termarina (proportions vary with vintage). Spontaneous fermentation with 3 days skin maceration. Aged in tank. Re-fermentation in bottle. No disgorgement, fining or filtration, and no added sulfur. This is bright on the aromatics with spicy berries, lively fruit and a great dry, but not harsh or overly rustic on the finish.

THE PRODUCER: Located in the village of Scandiano, Emilia-Romagna, between the foothills of the high Apennine Mountain range to the east and the Po` River basin is a tiny but very active polycultural farm. Founded in 2014 by Luca Verzelloni and his two childhood friends Simone and Francesca, Prati al Sole was a ground-up project that had a mission to bring naturally farmed vegetables, honey and wine to their local community. Today they grow a myriad of heirloom vegetables, heirloom grains, and raise bees for honey in addition to their winemaking.

In talking to the owner Luca about his influences and passions he mentioned the late, great, Stefano Bellotti of Cascina Degli Ulivi; an early biodynamic and holistic winemaking practitioner that left an indelible mark on Luca when they'd met years ago. Clearly Luca and the team at Prati are following in his footsteps and writing their own story of Italian agro-viticulture.