Two gret maceration whites tasted this year…
The Le Coste estate is located in Gradoli, in the province of Viterbo, near Lake Bolsena on the border between Lazio and Umbria. A beautiful area of Etruscan heritage with beautiful landscapes such as the Valle dei Calanchi on the slopes of Civita di Bagnoregio. Here the soils are of volcanic origin rich in iron and minerals that make the wines fragrant. Le Coste was born in February 2004 with the purchase by Gianmarco and Clementine, the owners, of three hectares of abandoned land known as “Le Coste”. The goal was to produce products deriving from organic agriculture in synergy with nature and the surrounding landscape. Today Le Coste covers an area of about 14 hectares, of which three of vines planted by Gianmarco and Clementine, four of old vineyards for rent, four of olive trees and three of woods, where were you can find patches of Mediterranean scrub, wild chestnut trees and elms. Gianmarco and Clementine apply the principles of biodynamics to their plants.
Le Coste bianco is made with Malvasia di Candia, Procanico and other local varieties. The nose is incredible reminiscent of grapefruit, confit lemon peel and nuances of clove. Intriguing floral notes as well that bring to mind camomille and star anise wrapped up in a magical note on iron or iode. Medium to full body with a beautiful sour acidity that recall tropical citrus fruit. Lovely structure with a nice coherence in the palate. A very long finale.
Available as a private import through Agence Sans Nom ( $47, six pack cas
The Twilight zone of wine
Dario Princic Sivi 2016
Dario does not need an introduction in these pages. All of his products are magical and pushes the limit of winemaking. Bianco Sivi 2016 defies the usual conventions on how Pinot Grigio should be vinified. A highly subjective wine that recalls me the fountain urinal sculpure by Marcel Duchamp in 1917.
The nose is quite striking revealing aromas of cherry licqueur with a touch of hibiscus and cocoa. Some salty notes of caramel as well.However, it does not occur at the same time. It unfolds to the taster with time. Be patient when you take this wine. On the palate, it is quite structured with a combination of spicy aromas and tropical fruit. It actually brings to mind pineapple cake.
The greatness of this wine comes from its aging. It was macerated on its skins and aged for 30 months in french oak casks. It was a great pairing with whole wheat pasta with ground veal and coconut milk with two beaten eggs to add more richness to the dish.
Available via Agence Boires. Six pack case ( 68.50+Tx)
Cheers!!!
