Pian delle Vette: Indomitable Spirits in the Heart of the Mountain

Interview with Alessandro Bee, from Pian delle Vette

How did the idea of founding Pian delle Vette come about?

The story is recent but already quite complex—almost TV-series-like. The common thread? A stubborn passion for the land, for wine, and for this territory. None of us come from the world of wine: we arrived there by choice, not by inheritance.

What's the added value of growing at high altitude? And what are the challenges?

Altitude, dolomitic soil, temperature variations, and spontaneous biodiversity: these are the ingredients that make our wines distinctive, vertical, and unconventional. The challenges? Everything done on a slope is often done by hand. But this is also our strength: knowing every row meter by meter has taught us to read the vineyard like a diary.

How do you choose what to grow? Is there a variety that feels more yours?

The Belluno area lacked a modern viticulture to draw inspiration from, so we experimented. After the first few years, the choice was clear: to give a mountain identity to two of the most noble and international grape varieties—Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. They are the heart of our wines, both still and Metodo Classico. And then we also have a few outsiders, for those who like to break the mold.

How is your production structured?

All in-house. The vineyard and cellar are on the same property: we harvest by hand, vinify immediately, and follow every step of the way up to labeling. Limited production, healthy grapes, very few additions in the cellar, and a lot of patience: time is our best ally.

What does protecting biodiversity mean to you?

It means not sowing, but letting it grow. It means coexisting with highland herbs and flowers, fighting weeds without shortcuts, and caring for the vines with the goal of minimizing intervention. We aren't certified organic, but we are definitely responsible artisans. And we do it for this land, even more than for ourselves.

Can you involve the local community or young farmers?

We're working on it. The Feltre area has a rich agricultural history, but viticulture has long been absent. Now we're rekindling interest, especially among younger people, even though the wine market isn't the easiest. But there's curiosity, and this is already a start.

Do you collaborate with schools, restaurateurs or associations?

Yes, we support agricultural students during their internships and actively participate in the activities of the "Coste del Feltrino" Consortium. Events, tastings, meetings: we do our part to promote a wine culture that is local yet broad-based.

A moment you are particularly proud of?

The AIS "Tastevin" award received at the Leopolda in Florence with our Mat '55. Taking the stage with a Metodo Classico from the mountains, alongside Sassicaia, was surreal. And also a nice reminder: small, yes, but with clear ideas.

How do you see the future of mountain agriculture?

Consumers are increasingly aware, and every corner of Italy has potential if properly promoted. Even areas like ours, until now off the radar of mainstream viticulture, can become key landmarks. The Belluno Dolomites aren't just for photography: they're for drinking, with respect.

What does networking with Fine Taste mean to you?

Joining Fine Taste means a concrete opportunity to make ourselves known, not only through our wines, but also through the way we produce them. Our work is artisanal, crafted with care, informed choices, and respect for the land. Each bottle carries with it a precise identity, a story to tell.

Fine Taste helps us bring these stories to the right people: those who recognize the value of authenticity, those who seek something beyond the simple label. For us, it's not just about sales, but about genuine connections, built on mutual respect and a shared vision of quality.