Tasting notes:

Bellone, perhaps an under-appreciated grape from just south of Rome, has long been used as a \'blending grape\' in Frascati and other Lazio wines.  Here, from the Santarelli family (since 1914), this variety is showing Bellone can become a star on its own. Medium yellow-gold in colour, the wine has ripe yellow peach fruit accented by gentle oak, shown by hazelnut and toasted coconut nuances. Dry and quite intense, the mid-weight palate is balanced by brisk acidity and a creamy texture. A long umami finish and surprising elegance suggests a rich seafood dish, such as Lobster Newburg, as a pairing. Patricia Stefanowicz MW