Stella di Campalto (Podere S.Giuseppe)
Summary
Stella di Campalto is a small family-owned estate in southeastern Montalcino producing approximately 10,000 bottles annually of Sangiovese-based wines from 5.5 hectares of vineyards spread across six distinct parcels at 250-270 meters elevation. The estate's biodynamic approach, spontaneous fermentations, extended macerations, and aging far beyond appellation requirements in large Slavonian oak casks have established Stella's unfiltered, terroir-driven wines as sought-after collector items despite her lack of formal winemaking background.
Heritage & Leadership
Podere San Giuseppe came into Stella di Campalto's hands in 1992 as a wedding gift from her father-in-law. The estate, located in the southern zone of Montalcino near the hamlet of Castelnuovo dell'Abate, was largely abandoned when Stella took ownership. Despite having no prior winemaking experience, she committed herself to revitalizing the property. The first vines were planted in 1994, and the initial commercial vintage was released in 1998. Stella has maintained sole leadership of the estate since its inception, overseeing its development from an abandoned property to a fully functioning winery. In 2002, she began the transition to biodynamic farming practices, achieving full certification in 2005. The estate remains family-owned and operated, with Stella directing all aspects of production and business operations.
Vineyards & Wines
The estate encompasses 5.5 hectares of vineyards situated at approximately 250-270 meters above sea level in the southeastern sector of Montalcino. The vineyards are divided into six distinct parcels, each with unique soil compositions and microclimates: Vigna Bassa, Vigna Curva, Vigna Bosco, Vigna Ulivo, Vigna Quercia, and Vigna Alta. These parcels are planted exclusively with Sangiovese, locally known as Brunello. The soils vary across the property, featuring combinations of clay, limestone, galestro, and sandy components. The estate produces three main wines: Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Brunello di Montalcino Riserva DOCG, and Rosso di Montalcino DOC. In exceptional vintages, Stella also produces single-vineyard selections from specific parcels. Annual production remains deliberately small at approximately 10,000 bottles, allowing for meticulous attention to each vine and barrel.
Philosophy & Practice
Stella di Campalto adheres to certified biodynamic viticulture principles, having received official certification in 2005. The estate follows a minimal intervention approach throughout the winemaking process. Harvesting is conducted entirely by hand, with careful selection of grapes in the vineyard and again at the sorting table. Fermentation occurs spontaneously with indigenous yeasts in wooden vats without temperature control. Maceration periods are extended, typically lasting 30-40 days. The wines age in large Slavonian oak casks (30 hectoliters) for a minimum of 36 months for Brunello and 48 months for Riserva, significantly exceeding the minimum requirements of the appellation. No filtration is employed before bottling. The estate's commitment to biodynamic principles extends beyond the vineyards to the entire property, which functions as an integrated ecosystem including olive groves, forest land, and gardens. Stella's approach emphasizes patience and respect for natural cycles, allowing each vintage to express its unique character without forcing a predetermined style.