Cincinnato 2022 Argeo, Lazio

This wine comes from elevated, organic vineyards in Italy's Lazio region.

If you think of Italy as a boot (and who doesn't?) Lazio would be at the front of the knee, on the West side of the country. Interestingly, Lazio's capital is a familiar city called Rome and the region's history extends back to the Etruscans, the civilization preceding the Romans.

The region's economy and its wines suffered great declines under the fascist regime, but both have enjoyed enviable growth in the 70 years since, though its economic growth has far, far outpaced its wine prices! As a result, the wines of Lazio represent exceptional value. You can find over 58,000 acres of vines in Lazio, over 70% of which are white.

The wine is 100% Cesanese - one of Lazio's most interesting wine grapes. Offering notes of earth and cherry fruit with intriguing floral aromas. This wine is from vineyards growing in volcanic soils with some clay, both of which lend gravitas to their wines. The vineyard is in the hills of Cori at about 650 feet of altitude. Half the wine is aged in oak barrique, the other half in stainless steel tanks for a year, then it undergoes a light filtration and is held another six months in bottle prior to release.

13.5% ABV

Common pairings: Duck or rabit ragu over pasta, polenta with Italian sausages (with or without a light drizzle of tomato ragu!), grilled pork ribs w BBQ sauce. Or for that matter, any form of BBQ from chicken to brisket!