Olivastri Tommaso
La Carrata Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC Riserva 2017
Case of 6 bottles.
Made from 100% Montepulciano grapes, hand-harvested in late October from low-yield vineyards on the Marcantonio estate planted 127 metres a.s.l.. With the Adriatic Sea to the east, and protected by the Majella mountain to the west, these vineyards are planted in calcareous-clay soil and ripen under the dry sun of the hills. Combined, this allows for rich mineral aromatics and complex structure to develop naturally in the grapes.
The Montepulciano grape is widely planted along the Adriatic coast, and is most well known in the region of Abruzzo.
Traditional red wine vinification - following crushing and destemming, the grapes are kept on the skins for 15-20 days to extract colour and flavour. A soft pressing follows, and fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled, stainless-steel tanks. The wine is aged in stainless-steel tanks for 30 months, then 18 months in barriques (50% new and 50% 2nd passage), and rests in bottle for nine more months before release. Alc./Vol. 14.3% R.S. 3.6 gr/L.
Our tasting note: Deep red colour with garnet tinges. Complex aromas and flavours of Bing cherry and spiced plum with notes of pepper and cinnamon. Dry, full-bodied, velvety tannins, and an elegant finish.
Food matches: Pair with grilled/roasted/braised meats (beef, lamb, stuffed veal, pork, game), pasta with earthy ragù, earthy vegetarian dishes (porchini).