A Gulpable Under-the-Radar Rosso
A Gulpable Under-the-Radar Rosso
by Anthony Lynch by Anthony Lynch
Putting Lombardia on the Map Putting Lombardia on the Map
2016 Valtènesi “La Botte Piena”
2016 Valtènesi “La Botte Piena”
Lombardia is not particularly renowned for wine, but a closer look reveals a number of small growing regions offering something unique.
La Basia Italy | Lombardy | Valtènesi DOC
Italy’s rich tradition of viticulture is illustrated not only by the great wines from prestigious appellations such as Barolo and Brunello but also by the wealth of gems found in lesser-known regions all over the country. Lombardia is not particularly renowned for wine, but a closer look reveals a number of small growing regions offering something unique. The Valtènesi zone, along the southwestern shore of Lake Garda, is one such example, and the delicious, easy-drinking reds produced here offer tremendous value—not to mention a surefire cure for a jaded palate. In this example from La Basia, a small family farm producing wine as well as a fantastic stone-ground polenta, the local Groppello grape stars alongside Sangiovese, Marzemino, and Barbera. Aged in concrete tanks and bottled unfiltered, it benefits from a slight chill: with loads of fresh fruit, a peppery crunch, bright acidity, and light, smooth tannins, this under-the-radar rosso is about as gulpable as they come.
Lombardia is not particularly renowned for wine, but a closer look reveals a number of small growing regions offering something unique.
Wine Type: | red |
Vintage: | 2016 |
Bottle Size: | 750mL |
Blend: | Gropello, Sangiovese, Marzemino, Barbara |
Appellation: | Valtènesi DOC |
Country: | Italy |
Region: | Lombardy |
Producer: | La Basia |
Winemaker: | Giacomo Tincani |
Vineyard: | 15 – 50 years, 3 ha |
Soil: | Moraine, with sandy clay |
Aging: | Maceration lasts 6 days, then wine is aged for 9 months in stainless steel tanks, and aged in bottle for at least 3 months |
Farming: | Sustainable |
Alcohol: | 12.5% |