Anthony Verdoni cradles some choice La Macolina wines as he is joined by winery owner Giuliana Bendetti and her daughter, Ilaria Cesari.

La Macolina is an historic vineyard area in the Bologna Hills near Imola.  Documents indicate that “Agricola Maccalina,” meaning “little woodland farm,” was registered by the noble Monsignani family in 1871.  Testimony adds that this 19.5 hectare plot (47 acres) produced wines centuries earlier.  Coaches used to stop at La Macolina to purchase wine before their arduous climb  through the Apennines to Tuscany, only 30 miles away.  Classical varietals such as Sangiovese and Albana and modern types, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, thrive on this site.  Production is very limited.  Recently, Guiliana Benedetti purchased La Macolina from Marchesi Monsignani.

The Wines of La Macolina
   Sangiovese di Romagna Riserva, DOC
   Albana di Romagna Passito, DOCG
   Albana di Romagna Secco, DOCG
   Museum, IGT