1999 Castello di Luzzano Carlino Bonardo

The Fugazza sisters of Castello di Luzzano produce wines in Oltrepò Pavese in the north of Italy between the provinces of Pavia and Piacenza. In fact the regional borders of Lombardia and Emilia-Romagna runs through the middle of their courtyard! Since 1994 Castello di Luzzano has used biological agricultural methods rigorously controlled by the European Economic Community. There is no use of chemicals and insecticides and careful thought has gone into the setting up of underground water irrigation. The result of these production methods is a superior wine of quality concentration in flavour and varietal character. The Fugazza sisters only produce wine from the better vines and they sell off the rest of the grapes. The soil conditions in the valley, where the vines are located are calcareous limey soil. Please note Barbera from this area in Italy, even though in close proximity to Piemonte are completely different strains and Oltrepò Pavese Barbera is nowhere near as robust or tannic as the Barbera D'Alba is in Piemonte.

Bonarda and Barbera are the most traditionally grown wines of Castello di Luzzano. Bonarda is the most prestigious wine produced in the district of Rovescala where it is almost exclusively grown near the town of Rovescala on the border between Lombardia and Emilia-Romagna. The label portrays the drawing of an 18th century ceramic vase that is still kept in the castle. Made from 100% Bonarda. The vine is pure Croatina from 30 - 45 year old vines.

The pressed and loose grapes chosen from the best vineyards are fermented in stainless steel tanks. The wine is then moved into a large vat and cellared for up to a year before release.

TASTING NOTE : Bright crimson colour with crimson hue. Aromatic nose, filled with the aroma of violets and spice, followed by a hint of truffle. The palate flavours of earth, farmyard and leather are counter pointed by spice and liquorice flavours. Fine grained tannins, excellent balance, with long aftertaste.
Cellar 2-3 years (2004-2005)
Alc/Vol: 13.0%

RATING: 89/100

VALUE: XXX/5