Cloè 2022 Abbazia San Giorgio

Cloè 2022 – Abbazia San Giorgio

Wine Overview

Cloè 2022 from Abbazia San Giorgio is a refined natural rosé wine made from 100% Nerello Mascalese. A short two-day skin contact gives the wine a delicate color and intense aromatic profile, highlighting the volcanic terroir. The production follows a minimal intervention philosophy, without chemical additions or sulfites. Contains naturally occurring sulfites.

History and Philosophy

Founded in 2015 by Battista Belvisi and Beppe Fontana, Abbazia San Giorgio aims to enhance Pantelleria’s native grape varieties. Cloè expresses the typicity of Nerello Mascalese and the unique volcanic character of the soils, with vines trained in guyot system. Sustainability, biodiversity, and respect for natural cycles guide the winery’s philosophy.

Vineyard Philosophy

The Cloè vineyard covers 1 hectare, with Nerello Mascalese trained in guyot system, average vine age 15 years. Density 4,500 plants/ha and yield approximately 45 q/ha. The volcanic soil, poor in organic matter but rich in micro-elements, ensures balanced vine growth. Biodynamic-inspired practices, though not certified, guarantee a natural and sustainable approach without chemical fertilizers or invasive treatments.

Winery Approach

Harvest occurs in the third decade of September, with hand-picking and selection of clusters. After destemming and crushing, spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts lasts about 15 days, while skin contact for about two days gives color and aromas without compromising the wine’s delicacy. Aging takes place partly in stainless steel and partly in chestnut barrels for approximately 6 months. No sulfur addition, filtration, or fining is applied.

Tasting Notes and Pairings

Color: soft pink with delicate reflections.
Nose: red fruits, strawberry, raspberry, and fresh herbs.
Palate: fresh, savory, balanced, with persistent minerality and harmonious finish.

Pairs excellently with aperitifs, seafood, vegetarian dishes, white meats, and fatty fish. Serve at 11-13°C.

Technical Sheet

• Producer: Abbazia San Giorgio

• Vintage: 2022

• Grapes: 100% Nerello Mascalese

• Appellation: IGT Terre di Sicilia

• Vineyard: Pantelleria, Sicily

• Area: 1 hectare

• Vine age: 15 years

• Training system: guyot

• Density: 4,500 plants/ha

• Yield: ~45 q/ha

• Fermentation: spontaneous with native yeasts

• Aging: stainless steel + chestnut barrels 6 months

• Sulfites: naturally present

• Alcohol: 12.5%

• Bottle size: 0.75 l

• Serving temperature: 11-13°C

• Contains sulfites

See all products of Abbazia San Giorgio

Abbazia San Giorgio: Natural Wines from Pantelleria

Winery History

Abbazia San Giorgio was founded in 2016 in Pantelleria by two friends, Battista Belvisi and Beppe Fontana, who wanted to create a wine that expressed the island’s identity. Their goal was to craft intense, distinctive wines in which the producer’s sensitivity acts as a spokesperson for the territory. The founders drew on traditional knowledge and experience from historical vineyards on the island.

Vineyard Philosophy

The vineyards cover 3.5 hectares in the Khamma district, one of the greenest areas on Pantelleria’s eastern side, with terraces overlooking the sea. Volcanic soils host mainly Zibibbo and Pignatello (Nivuro Nostrale), and to a lesser extent Carignano, Catarratto, and Nerello Mascalese. The traditional alberello pantesco training system, a UNESCO heritage, is used. No chemical products are applied; wild herbs are buried at the end of winter, promoting natural soil fertility.

Winemaking Approach

The natural philosophy continues in the cellar. Vinification relies solely on indigenous yeasts, without invasive interventions or additives, including sulfur dioxide. Every stage of production preserves authentic aromas and freshness, producing wines that evolve in the glass and convey the character of the territory even days after opening.

Wine Characteristics

Abbazia San Giorgio’s wines are fresh, sapid, and Mediterranean, a direct expression of the island and its unique pedoclimatic conditions. Each bottle captures the sun, sea breeze, and aromas of the Mediterranean, delivering an intense and authentic sensory experience. The winery embodies an artisanal approach, creating wines that interact with their environment naturally.