Lazio, Italy
San Giovenale Agricola
Emanuele Pangrazi founded San Giovenale in 2006. Together with renowned winemaker Marco Casolanetti, he planted international grape varieties on plots near the small town of Blera in Viterbo province.
Following a family trip to Blera, Emanuele Pangrazi decided to stay and make wine on an untouched patch of land. His aim was to do everything in harmony with nature. In 2006, he established Agricola San Giovenale – now the most important wine producer in Viterbo province.
Comparisons with the Rhône
Pangrazi hired the services of oenologist Marco Casolanetti, who said that the soils and the breezy, sunny weather in Viterbo reminded him of the Rhône Valley. Hence, the decision was taken to plant vines suited to such conditions: Carignan, Grenache, Syrah, Cabernet Franc and Tempranillo. The estate is situated 400 metres above sea level not far from the Tyrrhenian Sea. It comprises 13 hectares, which are farmed organically and sustainably. Loamy soils and a combination of sun and sea breezes translate into wines of remarkable character.
