The city of Nice celebrated the 80th anniversary of the wine label Bellet. A photo exhibition was presented under the pergola of the Promenade des Anglais, opposite the Palais de la Méditerranée. Local officials and winemakers were present.
The Bellet label has existed since 1941. It is one of the oldest controlled appellations. It covers about 650 hectares, with 50 in use, at elevations ranging between 200 and 300 meters. The hills of Bellet are home to about fifteen winemakers, who are keen on the cult of tradition and quality.
Christian Estrosi, Mayor of Nice, President of the Nice Côte d’Azur Metropolis, Deputy President of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur Region, Anthony Borré, First Deputy Mayor of Nice, Rudy Salles, Alpes-Maritimes Deputy, Pascal Condomitti, Assistant to the Mayor of Nice responsible for the territory and the liberal professions, Joseph Sergi, President of the management body of the Bellet wine appellation, Dominique Estrosi Sassone, Alpes-Maritimes Senator, Metropolitan and Municipal Councillor, and Valérie Sergi, Departmental Councillor representing Charles-Ange Ginesy, inaugurated the photo exhibition on the wines of Bellet.
The officials then walked to Villa Masséna, accompanied by numerous winemakers: Valérie Occelli, in charge of the Château de Bellet, Carine and Eric Dalmasso from Domaine de la Source, Robert Cohendet, manager and winemaker of Domaine Via Julia-Augusta, Gio, manager of Clos St Vincent, Nathalie and Jean-Patrick Pacioselli from Domaine St Jean, Alain Valles from Château de Crémat and Domaine de Toasc, and Jean Spizzo, manager and winemaker of Domaine du Fogolar Collet de Bovis.
Joseph Sergi is pleased with the evolution of the appellation. “It now includes nine organic winemakers. These men and women are committed to producing a quality product, with local expertise, thanks to unique grape varieties.” The president of the management body of the Bellet wine appellation quoted Churchill: “When it comes to wine, I am an easy amateur; I am content with the best.” The Bellet label is known worldwide and recognized among other French appellations.
Christian Estrosi considers the Bellet wine as the “perfect testament to the soul of Nice.” The Mayor of Nice is very proud and grateful that the Bellet label is part of the Nice identity. He promises to protect it.
The celebration concluded with a reception, featuring a wine tasting, in the presence of the winemakers.
A book by Véronique Thuin-Chaudron (history professor at the university) will be released on December 15th, by Gilletta Publishers.
