On the slopes of the old volcano Monte Amiata and overlooking Montalcino is this exciting wine producer.
Geographically, we are in southern Tuscany, specifically in the region of Grosseto, just outside the well-known municipality of Montalcino. The winery is located on the slopes of Monte Amiata, and the subsoil is clearly layered with a predominance of marl, which is a very calcareous clay, enriched with limestone and minerals. The volcanic minerals provide the opportunity to create unique wines, which are also known from e.g. Etna.
Marl soil tends to be dense and can be a bit compact, but the roots from the vines are strong and penetrate well. The result, however, is deeper roots, which reach down into even more of the enriched volcanic soil layers. Another side benefit of the deep roots is that during periods of drought, water can be drawn from deeper soil layers.
The unique subsoil certainly contributes to a nice minerality and complexity in the wines.
Sebastian Nasello has spent the last 10 years exploring the area on Monte Amiata. Sebastian is the winemaker behind the wines from one of Montalcino's unique wineries, Podere le Ripi, now established as a top producer of Brunello di Montalcino.
A former winner of the Giulio Gambelli Prize for young winemakers, Sebastian is very aware of the changes that are happening with our climate and how it affects wine production.
At the same time, he is very curious and wants to develop the wine production itself. All in respect for nature and the historical roots and wisdom.
Together with his good friend Ugo Fabbri, Sebastian searched for several years for the perfect place to create a top wine according to his own thoughts and principles. It succeeded on the slopes of Monte Amiata.
Here, Ugo and Sebastian found just the right combination of elevation, underground and exposure.
Bakkanali today produces wines based on Sangiovese and Cabernet Saugvignon respectively - and a little bit of Merlot. In addition, 1.5 hectares of chardonnay have been newly planted.
When you taste the wines from Bakkanali, you clearly feel that you are in Italy. But you can also feel the background that Ugo and Sebastian have from countless trips to other wine regions and countries, where ideas and inspiration gather.
The wine production is certified organic - biodynamic conversion is underway.
