Agnanum
Agnanum, Sabbia Vulcanica Vino Rosso, Campania, Italy, Piedirosso, 2023
We are transporting over to Campania where the area’s famous volcano, Mt Vesuvius, influences the soils and vines and the ways in which the grapes express this dynamic terroir. What does that all mean? We have volcanic soils! And that makes the Piedirosso that is planted there so much more interesting when you are drinking it. Piedirosso is an indigenous Italian grape varietal that is specifically grown in the Campania region. This wine is grown in volcanic sand just west of Naples where the vineyards are steep trellises up a hillside. This kind of vineyard is incredibly challenging to work, most people would abandon it, but Raffaelle is committed to keeping the tradition going. The vineyard sites date back to Roman times, making wine in these conditions with this level of dedication is a labor of love for this producer. His main source of income is actually his rabbit farm. The wine is straight up perfumed with bramble, smoke and roses. It has an inky- blackberry appeal that intoxicates the soul. The flavor of this wine is not familiar for most people but it’s definitely an olfactory and engaging experience. While medium bodied it doesn’t feel too heavy, just really really pretty.
Serving temp: Cellar temp around 65 degrees is ideal, store in a dark and cool spot.
Pairing: wood fired pizzas with little charred edges would be the best!!