Intense, layered and complex. Full flavored and textured while still balanced within it's large framework. This is packed full of goodness and a unique approach to Chardonnay. Atypical. Forget everything you know about Le Coste's classic, salty macerated white wines - this is opulent, almost Ardeche-like Chardonnay - sun-kissed, ripe and golden in the glass. Aged one year in French oak and then 6 months in bottle, absolutely no fining, filtration, or added sulfur.

Le Coste

Le Coste is a fascinating project started in 2004 by Gian Marco Antonuzi and Clementine Bouveron. The couple are winegrowers in the Lazio region, about halfway between Pisa and Rome, who farm 6.5 hectares of vines near the village of Gradoli, overlooking Lago di Bolsena, and work biodynamically. The soils are volcanic, rich in iron and minerals.

The primary red grape here is Greghetto, which is the local version of Sangiovese. White varieties include Procanico and Malvasia. Half their vines are sourced, half are owned. Winemaking is natural, fermentation occurs spontaneously due to indigenous yeasts, and wines are made with no additions, including sulfur. Production is very small.

These are some of the most natural wines of Italy. Extremely pure and expressive, they are a joy to drink.