Buglioni Il Monello Passito Bianco Veneto IGT 2018

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1993, Buglioni is a family-owned winery located in the heart of Valpolicella Classica, near Verona, Italy. Initially acquiring a farmhouse with 3.5 hectares of vineyards, the Buglioni family transitioned from restaurateurs to vintners, embracing both traditional and innovative winemaking techniques. Over the years, the estate has expanded to 50 hectares, cultivating indigenous grape varieties and adhering to organic principles. Buglioni’s commitment to quality and authenticity has positioned them as a notable producer in the Veneto wine landscape.

Producer and Winemaker

The Buglioni family oversees the winery’s operations, with a focus on combining traditional methods with modern innovations. Their dedication to excellence is evident in their meticulous vineyard management and winemaking processes. By embracing techniques like amphora aging, they aim to highlight the purity and complexity of their wines, offering a fresh perspective on classic Valpolicella expressions.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The grapes for Il Monello are sourced from vineyards in the Veneto region, characterized by brown, alluvial soils rich in gravel, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the wine’s minerality. The region’s temperate climate, with warm days and cool nights, allows for optimal ripening of the Garganega and Incrocio Manzoni grapes, preserving their acidity and enhancing aromatic complexity.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Harvested manually in mid-September, the grapes undergo a drying process (appassimento) to concentrate sugars and flavors. Fermentation occurs over approximately 15 days at a controlled temperature of 16°C in stainless steel tanks. The wine is then aged for four months in steel tanks, followed by an additional two months in the bottle before release, ensuring freshness and balance.

Tasting Notes

Il Monello 2018 exhibits a golden color with amber reflections. On the nose, it offers an intense bouquet of apricots, dried fruits, jam, and delicate scents of vanilla and almond. The palate is sweet and warm, velvety and round, with flavors of overripe fruits and a hint of honey. The finish is long and balanced, leaving a lasting impression.

Food & Wine Pairing

This dessert wine pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including Italian pastries, fruit tarts, and blue cheeses. Its sweet and fruity profile complements spicy dishes, such as curry, and it also serves excellently as an aperitif. The wine’s balance and acidity make it suitable for both casual gatherings and more formal dining experiences.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve Il Monello well-chilled at 10–12°C (50–54°F) to accentuate its vibrant acidity and aromatic profile. Use standard white wine glasses to concentrate the aromas and deliver the wine to the appropriate areas of the palate. No decanting is necessary; however, allowing the wine to breathe for a few minutes in the glass can enhance its expressive qualities.

Storage and Aging Potential

While designed for immediate enjoyment, this wine can be stored under optimal conditions—cool, dark, and with consistent humidity—for up to 5–7 years. Over time, it may develop additional complexity, with tertiary notes of honey, nuts, and dried fruit emerging. Regular monitoring is advised to enjoy the wine at its peak maturity.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• Garganega: 90%

• Incrocio Manzoni: 10%

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14.5%