Meletos | Winemaker of the Month, December 2023
Adrian and Rebecca Santolin, a formidable winemaking duo, have cultivated a unique journey in the world of viticulture, much like the vines they tend to. Adrian's roots in winemaking stretch back to his family's vineyard and orchard, established by his Italian immigrant grandfather. Immersed in Italian culture from a young age, wine became an integral part of Adrian's heritage. On the other hand, Rebecca initially set out to study fashion design in Melbourne but found herself drawn to the world of wine after moving to the NSW outback with her family when she was 17 years old. Fate led her to working in a local winery, where she met Adrian, sparking a love story intertwined with their shared passion for winemaking.
Under the Santolin label, this dynamic duo expresses their creativity by producing Italian varietals, inspired by Adrian's rich Italian heritage. Their commitment to minimal intervention winemaking is evident in their unconventional techniques, such as leaving wine on its skins for added color and texture. The result is a portfolio of wines that reflects not only their craftsmanship but also the unique characteristics of the grapes they work with.
Since embarking on their winemaking journey in 2009, the Santolins have expanded their range, with each collection representing different facets of their personalities. The single vineyard wines showcase their serious side, emphasizing meticulous winemaking and exceptional fruit. In contrast, the Cosa Nostra range allows for experimentation and creativity, while the Little Saint range embodies their easy-going, cruisy side.
The heart of their winemaking philosophy lies in minimal intervention, Lo-Fi winemaking, and sustainable viticulture. Starting with exceptional fruit is the key, minimizing the need for extensive winemaking processes. This philosophy aligns with the belief that great wines should naturally reflect the unique characteristics of the grapes.
Being a family business, Adrian and Rebecca find a unique sense of accomplishment in creating something that bears their name and represents their hard work. Despite their differences in thinking and processing information, the collaborative effort allows them to complement each other, creating a harmonious balance, or finding a "middle ground" with Adrian adopting a Happy Life Happy Wife mantra.
The Santolins' commitment goes beyond crafting exceptional wines; it extends to a broader vision of responsibility and ethics in winemaking. Considering the impact on future generations, they aim to create a sustainable legacy that gives back to the local community, which has been instrumental in their growth and success.
Among their notable creations, the Il Capo and Friulano from the Cosa Nostra range showcase the Santolins' innovative approach. The Il Capo, inspired by Southern Italian reds, offers a medium-bodied, fruit-driven experience with savory undertones—a perfect companion for Italian dishes. The Friulano, fermented wild on its skins and aged in old oak, presents a rich, powerful, and funky profile with hints of herbs, wild grass, and subtle minerality.
Ultimately, the Santolins agree that the best way to enjoy their wines is with amazing food—a sentiment that reflects the Italian way of savoring life's pleasures. In each bottle of Santolin wine, the shared passion for winemaking and dedication to quality shine through, inviting enthusiasts to savor a unique and delightful experience.
