• The following 2019 Fantini ‘Casale Vecchio – Lot 23 - Organic’ Montepulciano was sourced from Montepulciano vineyards near the coastal area of Abruzzo. Many on steep slopes gaining extra sunlight while the day-night temperature swings provide deft balance between the flavours and the acidity. Grapes are harvested early October softly de-stemmed and undergo a crushing and cold-soak maceration in stainless steel tanks for four days then fermentation at a controlled 24 to 26 °C for 15 days, Once malo-lactic fermentation takes place the wine then matures for six to seven months in American and French oak.

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Fantini ‘Casale Vecchio – Lot 23 - Organic’ Montepulciano 2019
DOC Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, Italy $9.95 (612788) 13.5% alcohol
Ruby-red hued in the glass, aromas of black raspberry, red cherry and piquant peppery spice abound with the most gentle of swirls. It blankets the palate with a surge of mellow and smooth palate flavours—cassis, bramble berry and notions of ripe and juicy black Bing cherry. This is medium-bodied with satin-smooth mouthfeel, good structure ripe tannin and plenty of pizzazz on the palate, finish and aftertaste. After a two-hour aeration/decant, pour alongside a spicy China Sichuan eggplant with minced pork dish. (Vic Harradine)