Sportoletti
Summary
Sportoletti is a family-owned 20-hectare estate in Umbria's Assisi DOC, producing both indigenous and international varietal wines from southeastern-exposed vineyards on Mount Subasio's slopes, where calcareous clay soils and significant diurnal temperature variations define their terroir. Their winemaking philosophy balances traditional Umbrian methods with modern techniques, including hand harvesting, double grape selection, and judicious oak aging, establishing them as a reference point for the distinctive character of Assisi's wines.
Heritage & Leadership
Sportoletti was established in the 1970s by brothers Ernesto and Remo Sportoletti in the hills of Spello, near Assisi in Umbria. The winery remains family-owned and operated, with the second generation now actively involved in the business. The Sportoletti family has deep roots in the agricultural traditions of Umbria, transitioning from general farming to specialized viticulture and winemaking. Their winery is situated in an area with historical significance for viticulture, with evidence of winemaking dating back to Roman times. The family has gradually expanded their holdings over the decades, focusing on quality-driven production rather than volume.
Vineyards & Wines
Sportoletti's vineyards cover approximately 20 hectares in the Assisi DOC zone of Umbria, primarily on the slopes of Mount Subasio. The vineyards are planted at elevations ranging from 250 to 400 meters above sea level, benefiting from well-draining calcareous clay soils. The estate grows both international varieties (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay) and indigenous grapes (Sangiovese, Grechetto). Their flagship wines include the Villa Fidelia Rosso, a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Sangiovese, and Villa Fidelia Bianco, made from Chardonnay and Grechetto. The portfolio also includes varietal wines under the Assisi DOC and Umbria IGT classifications. The vineyard's southeastern exposure provides optimal sun exposure while the diurnal temperature variations contribute to aromatic development in the grapes.
Philosophy & Practice
Sportoletti embraces a balance between traditional Umbrian winemaking heritage and modern techniques. The winery employs temperature-controlled fermentation for their white wines to preserve freshness and aromatic qualities. For red wines, fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks followed by aging in French oak barrels. The Villa Fidelia Rosso typically ages for 12 months in French barriques followed by additional bottle aging before release. Harvest is conducted by hand, with careful selection of grapes in the vineyard and again at the sorting table. The winery focuses on low yields to concentrate flavors and regularly replants portions of their vineyards to maintain vine health and quality. Sportoletti's approach emphasizes expressing the distinctive characteristics of their terroir while maintaining consistency across vintages.