Elio Sandri is one of the few producers in the coveted land of Barolo who prides himself on how little he uses his tractor in comparison to the other producers in his area. There is a little hill in the heart of the Langhe, at the top of the hill known as Monforte and the vineyards of Perno. Following the GPS on the way to visit Elio, you pass the Repubblica di Perno a small nondescript little restaurant on the side of the road that is a favorite of locals, over looking a gully of vineyards off to the other side of the road and when you see that, you think you are almost there. Elio will warn you - “do not follow GPS”. I had some friends who visited Elio a few years ago and they sent me a message - “Elio is such a wonderful man! He pulled us out of a ditch with his tractor, dressed impeccably wearing his Italian loafers”. They, had followed the GPS and this was one of the rare times that Elio could use his tractor. Elio, happens to be one of the most humble men who happens to produce among the worlds most famous wines from Barolo - organically, naturally and without the use of chemicals in the vineyard or his cellar. Tall stature with a disarming demeanor and warm shy smile. the only thing that Elio is lacking is the austere nature most often found among the “Great” winemakers of the world.