Azienda Agricola Il Farneto is an 8-hectare (19.77 acre) winery nestled between the hills of Scandiano and Canossa in Castellarano, Western Emilia-Romagna. Established in the mid-90s by Marco Bertoni, the winery is dedicated to producing natural wines that embody their terroirs. Winemaker Flavio Restani creates exquisite wines using time-honored techniques that prioritize the long-term vitality of the soils.

The winery is certified Biodynamic, with all operations conducted manually and with profound respect for nature. The vineyards are densely planted with 4000 vines per hectare and feature vines that are, on average, 15 years old, thriving in sandy clay soils. Although large French barrels with a capacity of up to 500 liters are employed, they are old and used solely to enhance the wines subtly.

The wines are named after the local Rio Rocca river, celebrated for its distinctive geological features and natural wilderness. Fermentation is carried out exclusively with wild yeast, and the use of sulfur is kept to a minimal or non-existent level. The resulting wines have a distinct freshness and approachable character.

History

Emilia-Romagna's viticultural legacy dates back to ancient times, with both the Etruscans and Romans recognizing the value of the region's fertile terrains.

Subsequently, they initiated the cultivation of vineyards, thereby establishing the foundational pillars of the region's wine legacy. Over time, Emilia-Romagna welcomed various traders and settlers, and their collective contributions further shaped its wine traditions.

Terroir

Geographically, Emilia-Romagna spans from the expansive plains of the Po River to the rugged terrains of the Apennine Mountains. The region's climatic conditions, moderated by the Adriatic Sea, provide an optimal environment for viticulture. Its terroir, characterized by a composite soil structure of clay, silt, and sand, accentuates the uniqueness of its vineyards.

This particular soil composition ensures that grapes cultivated here encapsulate the region's intrinsic qualities, resulting in wines that reflect the true essence of Emilia-Romagna.

Wines

Emilia-Romagna is a repository of diverse wines, with Lambrusco often being the most recognized. However, its offerings extend beyond this effervescent variety. The region's Sangiovese reds are emblematic of its profound wine-producing expertise, while the Trebbiano whites exhibit a distinct lightness and elegance.

With an increasing emphasis on organic and natural wine production, Emilia-Romagna is poised to be at the forefront of contemporary vinicultural innovations, underscoring the belief that wine is not merely a beverage but a narrative of its origins.