Bertolani Family
Nicola Bertolani
Lambrusco Emilia IGT, Lambrusco Reggiano DOC
Delaware, National, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania
Ancellotta, Lambrusco Maestri, Lambrusco Marani, Lambrusco Salamino, Malbo Gentile
Foothill Vineyards
Sustainable
The Bertolani winery was established in Scandiano in 1925 by Alfredo Bertolani, supported by his passion for grapes and by the knowledge of this territory from his background as a grape broker. Today, the winery remains family-owned by the fourth generation, and their respect of the area’s terroir and careful wine making processes produce Lambrusco of great quality.
Winegrowing in Reggio Emilia is located 84% in the plane areas and 15% in the hilly areas. Scandiano lies in the south, at the foothills of the Reggio Emilia province. Bertolani’s grapes come from hillside vineyards and foothill areas where soil is fine with high levels of clay and lime, low availability of water and low fertility. Hillside Lambrusco differs greatly from its lowland cousin, both in terms of climate and soil conditions. The vineyards in the hills are years old, their balance brings out the harmony and sparkling spirit of the grapes, creating wines with a strong character that are often more structured and sapid, with intense fruity notes.
In 2008 a new winery was built with the intention of low environmental impact and sustainability, with particular attention to energy conservation and renewable energy. A large underground rainwater collection tank waters the garden. Internal insulation reduces head dispersion and offers heat savings of 60-70% compared to minimum required levels. Underfloor heating throughout the production areas uses very little energy. A fully integrated and large photovoltaic system on the building roof allows the winery to be self-sufficient through green energy.
Bertolani is also one of the few wineries in the area that achieved the following Certifications of Sustainability: UNI EN ISO 14001:2015 – Environmental Management Systems, UNI EN ISO 22000:2005 – Food safety management Systems, and EMAS – Eco-management and Audit Scheme.