2015 La Calcinara ‘Il cacciatore di sogni – Marche – Italy
La Calcinara wines began in 1997 in the Calcinara district of Candia (Ancona) when a leading expert identified the site as great potential for growing Montepulciano grapes. So on the 20 hectare property, 4 hectares of the Montepulciano grapes were planted. In 2005 a new winery was built and it was around this time that the wines really came into their own. In the meantime, the vines were increased to a total of 9 hectares. They also have 4 hectares of olive groves, which is a very common trend in Italy, where different crops and activities are carried out on smallish estates.
La Calcinara is a genuine hands on family business, the team comprises of brother and sister, Paolo and Eleanor, who under the guidance of their father are making some of the best wines of the region.
The vineyard is situated at 200 metres above sea level and the 2015 vintage is 100% Montepulciano, where in past vintages they have blended in a little Merlot. Everything is very hands on in the vineyard and winery, with very traditional winemaking practices. The wine spends 14 months in French Oak before a bottling with minimal filtration. A very intense wine, which is so fresh and vibrant. There can be a tendency of Italian wines from lesser known regions to get carried away with the oak and power ratio, (In the pursuit of more, they end up with too much) but thankfully this wine is not one of those. A very attractive ruby red colour with violet aromas overflowing with fruity scents of cherries, plums and leather. A long lingering finish that has you reaching for a second glass and then a second bottle
Cellaring potential
Decant for 20 minutes before serving, can be safely cellared for the next 5-7 years
Food Matching
Excellent with pastas with meat sauce and medium cheese. Braised and stewed meats. Think of meat dishes that have a high fat content.