The Mattoline 2018

Located in the Veneto region, the Gini Scajari estate cultivates its vines on the volcanic hills surrounding the village of Monteforte d'Alpone, east of Verona. The plots destined for the Le Mattoline cuvée benefit from soils blending basalt, tuff, and clay, providing good water retention and a strong mineral expression. Facing primarily south and southeast, the vines enjoy generous sunshine and cooler nights, promoting slow ripening of the grapes and a beautiful aromatic concentration in this Italian red wine.

This wine reveals notes of ripe red fruit , black cherry , and plum , complemented by floral touches reminiscent of violet and dried rose. Spicy nuances of pepper and licorice mingle with a light oak character and a subtly mineral structure. On the palate, the wine is full and supple, supported by fine tannins, balanced acidity, and a lingering finish that leaves an impression of freshness and harmony.

Ah, Italy, what a beautiful, hedonistic country, the land of la dolce vita, but how difficult it is to understand its wine industry! The key to understanding the appellation system in Italy is to think of it as several small countries rather than a single homogeneous nation, as each region has its own appellation system. Italy can offer wine lovers a multitude of wines with varied and unique flavors and styles, bottles brimming with surprise and creativity. Unfortunately, it also produces a large quantity of soulless, characterless wines sold under their most commercially useful and prestigious name: Pinot Grigio, Chianti, Valpolicella, Lambrusco, Prosecco, and many others... But let's talk a little history. Viticulture in Italy dates back to antiquity and originated in Greece. The Etruscans are said to have introduced the vine, and Greek immigrants improved and modified the grape varieties, subsequently calling the country "Oenotria": the land of wine. At the height of the Roman Empire, wine held an important place in daily life, and certain regions already distinguished themselves by the excellence of their product. The Romans also established numerous vineyards in Europe, leaving an indelible mark of their conquest. Today, Italy is the world's largest wine producer, ahead of France. Italy is divided into three climatic zones. The northern mountains have a rather harsh mountain climate. The plains of the "central boot" are characterized by a continental climate with cold winters and hot, stormy summers. In the southern part of the Italian boot, the Mediterranean climate prevails, with very hot and dry summers, not forgetting the islands of Sicily and Sardinia. In short, Italy produces a wide variety of wines thanks to its 200 different grape varieties, many of which originated in its own lands. It is a country as complex as its wines, which deserve to be explored!