Le Coste Aleatico Le Primeur 2022

Le Coste di Gradoli, a winery established by Gianmarco Antonuzzi and Clémentine Bouveron in 2004, is located in Gradoli, Lazio, near the volcanic Lake Bolsena in Central Italy. The 14-hectare estate boasts a diverse ecosystem comprising vineyards, olive groves, chestnut trees, shrubs, and oaks. The area's volcanic soil, rich in iron and minerals, contributes to the region's unique terroir.

Gianmarco and Clémentine are committed to organic farming practices and adopt a hands-on, biodynamic approach to viticulture. They meticulously tend to their vines, ensuring harmony with the surrounding environment. The vineyards are densely planted, with up to 10,000 plants per hectare, including a mix of massale selections and ungrafted vines.

In the cellar, they embrace a low-intervention philosophy. Their wines, known for their purity and character, are vinified in an ancient cellar in Gradoli's center. They use whole bunch fermentation, including for the whites, and age the wines in large tanks, mainly fiberglass, without adding anything during the process. The cellar is designed to use gravity for all rackings, eliminating the need for pumps.

Their wine range is extensive, with each bottle reflecting the passion and dedication of its makers. Le Coste di Gradoli has become a symbol of the natural wine movement, producing wines that mirror not only the Lazio terroir but also the winemakers' commitment to natural, sustainable practices.

Lazio, also known as Latium, is a central Italian wine region renowned for its ancient winemaking heritage, which dates back to Etruscan times. The area is predominantly recognized for its white wines, especially from grape varieties like Malvasia and Trebbiano, which are used to produce well-known wines such as Frascati and Est! Est!! Est!!! di Montefiascone. These wines are typically light, crisp, and meant to be consumed young. The region's geography varies from volcanic hills to fertile plains, providing a diverse terroir that supports viticulture. The volcanic soils, in particular, enrich the wines with a complex mineral profile.

Despite its historical legacy, Lazio's wines have remained relatively obscure on the international market compared to other Italian regions. However, there is a growing interest in the region's red wines, including Cesanese, Sangiovese, and Montepulciano varieties. These reds are known for their depth and ability to age well. Lazio also benefits from a Mediterranean climate influenced by the Tyrrhenian Sea, which moderates temperatures, allowing for a longer growing season.