2008 Grifola – Montepulciano d’Abruzzo from Poderi San Lazzaro
The wine of the month is 2008 Grifola, a splendid Montepulciano d’Abruzzo produced by Poderi San Lazzaro. This relatively new discovery is a great find and a
very pleasant surprise.
The wines are well balanced, polished and full of depth and elegance. The Grifola is their special Estate 100% Montepulciano, a lively red with great expression of black fruit; jammy, vibrant and well structured. The finish is long, sweet and well refined.
Imported by my friend Dino from Vinity.
Appellation: Marche Rosso IGT
Production area: Commune of Offida, in the Marche region of Central Italy
Grape variety: Montepulciano 100%
Soil type: Predominantly calcareous clay
Vine density: 4000 vines per hectare (1,800 per acre)
Winemaking techniques: Submerged cap with frequent pumpovers each day for 6-8 days at temperatures of 25-30 degrees Celsius (77-86 degrees Fahrenheit). After racking, aging in barrique, where the malolactic fermentation develops naturally.
Harvest date: First or second 10 days in October
Yield: Approximately 50 quintali per hectare (2.2 tons per acre)
Alcohol: 14,5%
Bottles produced: 6000 per year
Aging: 16 months in French barriques, followed by six months in bottle.
Organoleptic characteristics: Intense ruby red color. Pure and clean aromas with a prevalence of berries, especially red berries. A wine of good structure and elegance with excellent equilibrium on the nose and the palate.
