La Bellanotte
Farra d'Isonzo, Italy
Located in the enchanting landscape lies Villa Baselli, known colloquially as “La Bella Notte,” a name shrouded in tales of chance and intrigue. Legends surround the origins of the name, attributing it to a fateful gambling incident or a passionate rendezvous between a Strassoldo and a young woman. The truth intertwines with folklore as history blends with popular imagination. Positioned on a hill formed by the ancient waters of the Isonzo River, the villa’s location bears the name “ronco,” denoting terraced hills.
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Historical records suggest that the upper part of the property once housed the Farra Castle, dating back to the pre-1000 era and owned by the high prelates of Aquileia and later the counts of Gorizia. Count Mainardo razed the castle and the adjacent Roman bridge in 1215. In 1695, the estate changed hands through a sale, with Zaccaria von Baselli acquiring it from Countess Queen Elisabeth of Strassoldo, born Baroness von Scharffenberg. The purchase agreement included the districts of Farra, Grotta, and Villanova, while some properties, such as a chapel in Villanova, were excluded. The Strassoldo family had been present in Farra since 1377, holding civil and criminal jurisdiction until the French Revolution ended their privileges.
Accessible from the state road leading to Gradisca d’Isonzo, the villa catches the eye of passersby. A small bridge traverses the canal, constructed in 1529 to supply water to the moat of Gradisca d’Isonzo’s fortress. Near the bridge stands a capital housing the statue of San Giovanni Napomuceno, also known as “St. John of the waters.” In 1989, the statue and simulacrum were restored and blessed, adding a touch of spiritual significance to the surroundings.
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The estate’s soils exhibit calcareous characteristics with a significant decalcified and red gravel presence. The presence of ferrettized earth, nearly one meter deep, enhances water retention and fertilizer efficiency. The Isonzo and Judrio rivers’ courses feature white gravels, known for their permeability and aeration, though requiring careful irrigation and fertilization practices. Despite the challenges, the vine thrives on these lands, showcasing enhanced quality attributes.
La Bellanotte’s climatic conditions remain relatively uniform, benefiting from the nearby sea and the encircling Alps. This unique blend of influences leads to significant temperature variations, creating a favorable environment for viticulture.
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Presently, La Bellanotte is owned by Mrs. Giuliana Guadagni, adding her chapter to the rich tapestry of the villa’s history. With its intriguing past, fertile soils, and favorable climate, La Bellanotte stands as a testament to the symbiotic relationship between heritage, land, and the art of winemaking. Visitors to this estate are invited to explore its secrets and savor the fruits of its labor, gaining a deeper appreciation for the intertwining elements that shape its wines and the region’s viticultural legacy.
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La Bellanotte
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