Santa Lucia, the patron saint of the blind, eye diseases, and ophthalmologists, lends her name to a remarkable project. This initiative was born from the collaboration between Maculan Winery in Breganze (Vicenza, Italy) and the Veneto Eye Bank Foundation ETS.
For 15 years, this initiative has symbolized generosity and commitment to eye health research. Fausto Maculan speaks passionately about this journey, highlighting his team’s dedication to creating a meaningful impact.
An exclusive Cabernet Sauvignon for a worthy cause
In October, journalists, wine critics and entrepreneurs gathered at the Maculan Winery for an exclusive blind tasting to select the 2023 vintage of Santalucia. They evaluated six samples, each from the finest single-varietal barrels. The panel chose a Cabernet Sauvignon from a single vineyard in Ferrata, Breganze as the winner. This vineyard, perched on a sun-drenched hillside, offers a breathtaking panoramic view—a fitting origin for a wine of such distinction.
The Santalucia 2023 will, as always, be a limited-edition production, just 300 individually numbered bottles.
“This year marks the 15th anniversary of the Santalucia project. We are deeply grateful to Fausto Maculan and his renowned winery for their unwavering support. Through this initiative, they have contributed significantly to advancing research on eye diseases,” said Diego Ponzin, President of the Veneto Eye Bank Foundation. “Santalucia is a unique project, bringing together citizens, partners, experts, and enthusiasts to support and learn about the vital work of the Eye Bank.”
A unique artist-designed label
This year’s edition will feature an exclusive artist-designed label. It will be unveiled during a charitable event on December 11th at the three-Michelin-starred restaurant Le Calandre (Padua).
The 2023 label promises to blend artistry and inclusivity, with a painting created by the Vite Vere Down DADI Cooperative in Padua serving as inspiration. Young artists from the cooperative will handcraft 300 unique labels. Each bottle will become a collector’s item and a testament to creativity and social inclusion.
For those living in Italy and eager to make a difference: why not enjoy a fine wine and support a worthy cause?
The bottles are already available at Maculan Winery. You can also contact the Veneto Eye Bank Foundation ETS at in**@fb**.it or +39 041 965 6440/442.
More info about Veneto Eye Bank Foundation ETS https://www.fbov.org/
