A white wine with the soul of a red. A wine that knows how to be intense while maintaining a vibrant freshness. All this is Bramìto della Sala, Umbria IGT from Castello della Sala, 100% Chardonnay. Tangible proof that the most international grape variety there is is perfectly capable of expressing Umbria with its own unique accent. This wine is not only the “little brother” of the famous Cervaro della Sala, but also a true expression of accessible elegance, born within the historic walls of the famous castle. Umbria, Italy's only green heart without access to the sea. Yet, when tasting this wine, the mind travels to salt water. The reason lies in the soil on which the Castello della Sala vineyards are planted. We are just a few kilometres from Orvieto, and the Antinori family's plots are located between 270 and 400 metres above sea level. Clayey and calcareous soils incredibly rich in marine fossil sediments are the secret behind a marked minerality and sapidity that would otherwise be impossible to find. After manual harvesting and soft pressing, the must undergoes a very brief cold maceration on the skins to extract aromas and structure. Vinification is then the real key. Part of the must ferments and ages in French oak barriques, and only this portion undergoes malolactic fermentation. The rest matures in stainless steel vats. This dual regime is what gives the wine its typical complexity: the softness and vanilla notes of the wood blend with the freshness and minerality preserved by the steel. It is a subtle balance that is difficult to achieve. Beautiful bright straw yellow with golden reflections, the nose opens with an elegant and layered bouquet that is every bit as good as its more famous cousins. Notes of yellow-fleshed fruit, such as pineapple and Golden apple, followed by delicate citrus hints of lime and grapefruit that add tension. The nuances of ageing in wood are evident with slight hints of hazelnut, vanilla and brioche. On the palate, this white wine is harmonious, full-bodied but never cloying. Its freshness, given by excellent acidity, is balanced by a pleasant unctuousness and creaminess. The palate is savoury, almost salty, reflecting the fossil soil. The finish is long and persistent, a real pleasure. This Chardonnay with a “straight back” is extremely versatile, but gives its best with substantial pairings.