Bellaria Archivi — Enoteca di Piazza

Bellaria winery was founded in 1963 by Assunto Pieri and Bruna Tempori in Montalcino, even before the creation of the Consorzio del Vino Brunello and its winning of the state seal that guarantees its origin and transforms it into a true worldwide symbol of Made in Italy.

In fact, this happened only four years later and Assunto Pieri was one of the founders, together with other small, medium and large landowners who shared the same great passion for wine and the Montalcino area.

In 2000 Assunto passed the torch to his grandson Gianni Bernazzi, who modernised the company, improving marketing and company logistics without forgetting his grandfather’s teachings.

In fact, almost like 60 years ago, Bellaria still carries out viticulture and winemaking processes that are deeply respectful of the territory and the peculiarities of its products, without using systemic products, irrigation, fertilization or selected yeasts.

The Bellaria winery is located in Montalcino and extends for about 40 hectares (3 vineyards and the remainder divided between woods and olive groves) in which Brunello di Montalcino, Rosso di Montalcino, IGT, Vin Santo and a Sant’Antimo Rosso are produced.

The vinification process is carried out using temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, with pumping-over to maximise the extraction of the skins and the exaltation of every structural component of the wine. Refining takes place in small Slavonian oak casks and French oak barrels for about 36 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Bellaria winery located and in what part of Montalcino does it produce?

Azienda Agricola Bellaria is located in Montalcino and covers about 40 hectares, of which only 3 are vineyard and the rest woodland and olive groves. A modest scale that reflects the winery's craft approach, focused on quality over quantity.

Who founded the Bellaria winery? Is it a family business?

Yes: Bellaria was founded in 1963 by Assunto Pieri and Bruna Tempori, a few years before the Consorzio del Vino Brunello was established, of which Assunto himself was among the founders. In 2000 the reins passed to his grandson Gianni Bernazzi, who modernized the winery's marketing and logistics without abandoning his grandfather's teachings.

What approach do they take in the vineyard and cellar at Bellaria?

The winery follows farming and winemaking processes deeply respectful of the territory, without using systemic products, irrigation, fertilizers or selected yeasts. Vinification takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks with targeted pump-overs, while aging takes place in small Slavonian oak casks and French oak barrels for about 36 months.

What wines does Bellaria produce?

Production, about 6,000 bottles a year, includes Brunello di Montalcino, also in Riserva version in five-star vintages, Rosso di Montalcino, an IGT wine and a Sant'Antimo Rosso.

Can you visit the Bellaria winery? Do they offer tastings?

Yes, the tasting room is inside the aging cellar, in a setting that combines stone, wood and terracotta with glass and steel accents. Gianni Bernazzi, besides being the winemaker, is also an excellent cook: by reservation, at least a week in advance and for groups of up to 12 people, the tasting can be paired with lunch or dinner.