Bellone is an ancient white grape variety native to Lazio, also known as Cacchione. Its origins are uncertain, but ampelographic tradition links it to viticulture in the Roman countryside and the Castelli Romani, where it has been documented since at least the nineteenth century and where it may correspond to the ancient ‘pantastica’ grape mentioned by Pliny. Today it is found mainly in the provinces of Rome and Latina, with significant populations in the Castelli Romani area, in the territories of Cori, Anzio and Nettuno, and in southern Lazio, on well-exposed hillsides with fresh, deep volcanic soils. The vine is vigorous; the leaf, large and pentagonal, is generally five-lobed, with a deep green, blistered upper surface and a downy underside. The bunch is medium to large, cylindrical-conical, sometimes winged, ranging from semi-compact to compact; the berry, medium to large and sub-round, has a thick, pruinose, yellowish skin and juicy flesh with a simple flavour. The wines produced are straw-yellow in colour with greenish highlights, with a delicate yet distinctive, floral and fruity bouquet, and a soft, harmonious, savoury and persistent palate, underpinned by good freshness. The more structured versions can age well over time, developing greater complexity. Its versatility allows for vinification in stainless steel, more complex ageing processes and interesting sparkling wine interpretations.
