On the outskirts of Modena in the tiny village of Campogalliano is the small estate of Podere il Saliceto. GianPaolo Isabella is most known as a decorated Muay Thai champion though he is a gentle winemaker both in the vineyard and the cellar.  In 2005 he and his brother in law Marcello were driven to follow their passion for all things wine and founded the 4 hectare estate they now operate together.  As producers of lambrusco they are dedicated to working with the classic local grape varieties such as Lambrusco di Sorbara and Salamino but they also work with the uncommon Malbo Gentile variety.  All -the agriculture is done organically and natural vinification and re-fermentations take place in bottle to make their lambrusco’s.  A plot of sauvignon blanc is also planted and made into a petillant naturel wine.  The Malbo gentile in vinified by itself in old oak barrels and produces a dark and savory wine capable of aging for 5-10 years.