"Il Bandito" White Wine – La Zerba

A bold and unconventional Cortese, naturally vinified and inspired by a legendary figure from the past

A wine, a story: the Bandit and the Champion

“Il Bandito” is a wine that carries a piece of local history. It is dedicated to Sante Pollastri, known as “the Bandit”, a famous outlaw from the early 20th century, born in these hills. He was a close friend of Costante Girardengo, a celebrated cyclist of the time. Their story inspired the well-known song by Francesco De Gregori, Il Bandito e il Campione. Like the legend, this wine is honest, rebellious, and true.

A pure, uncompromising Cortese

Made from 100% Cortese grapes from Vineyard No. 3 (average age: 35 years), with south and southwest exposure at 280–300 meters a.s.l., on clay soils. The spontaneous fermentation begins with a pied de cuve obtained from an overnight skin maceration in the press. Must clarification is done statically at low temperature, with minimal intervention.

Indigenous yeasts, slow evolution and time-respect

The wine ages for 10 months on fine lees in stainless steel, with frequent bâtonnage, followed by 6 months in bottle. Unfiltered and unfined, it expresses the purest essence of the Cortese grape and its terroir.

Freshness, tension and aromatic precision

On the nose it reveals lemon peel, rosemary and chamomile. On the palate it is vibrant, salty and enveloping, with a bright acidity and a lingering, energetic finish.

Recommended pairings

Excellent with fresh goat cheese, fish carpaccio, herb salads, savoury tarts and creative vegetarian cuisine.