Paolo Bea Santa Chiara Umbria Bianco 2020

Grapes	Grechetto, Malvasia, Chardonnay, Sauvignon, Garganega
Producer	Paolo Bea
Region	Montefalco, Umbria, Italy
Vintage	2020
Maceration	2+ weeks on lees
Additions	No sulfur, ever
Production	~4,500 bottles annually

A white wine produced from Grechetto, Malvasia, Chardonnay, Sauvignon and Garganega, in approximately equal proportions, planted in the Pagliaro vineyard, a site with alternating layers of gravel and clay at 1,300 feet above sea level with both east and southwest facing parcels. After crushing, the juice spends at least two weeks macerating on its lees; sulfur is never added. Fermentation occurs in small stainless steel vats at low temperatures. Two rackings are done early in the fermentation process to remove the heavy deposits and a third is done after three weeks. This wine is then left on the fine lees in stainless steel for one year before being bottled. Approximately 4,500 bottles of wine are produced annually.

The Producer — Paolo Bea, Montefalco

Paolo Bea in Montefalco has been one of the most influential natural winemakers in Italy for decades — a cult figure whose wines, made with no additions and extended lees contact, have attracted global attention without ever being produced in quantities that satisfy demand. The Santa Chiara is one of the most important natural white wines from central Italy.

Tasting Notes

Golden with amber tints. Complex nose of dried flowers, citrus peel, almond, dried herbs, and the specific mineral depth of the Umbrian limestone. On the palate: textured from the maceration, with good natural acidity and a long, evolving finish. This wine reveals itself slowly — open it with time and attention.

How to Serve

Serve at 14–16°C. Open at least one hour before serving. A large-bowled glass. With food. This wine is not for solo contemplation — it is for the table.

Food Pairing

Aged pecorino and hard cheese, prosciutto, white truffle, roast pork, spiced dishes. The maceration adds structure that handles almost anything rich and savoury.

Learn more: Italian natural wine — the complete guide by region · Italian wine finder