- Red Still
- 75CL
- 15%
- Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
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Together with the celebrated and impeccable Montiano, this producer represents the old (and consolidated) guard of the wines of the last century.
Their muscular, fruity and full-bodied wines lift the level of Umbrian wines above all thanks to an enologist like Riccardo Cotarella, who is the standard bearer of wines made in the area of Orvieto as well as the area itself.
At twelve years old, this wine has reached its drinking plateau with primary fruit now integrated with secondary development. The tannins have softened considerably whilst retaining enough structure to support the wine for another 3-4 years. Peak drinking is now until 2030, after which the fruit may begin to fade whilst earthy, savoury characteristics become more prominent. The 2014 vintage's natural acidity should help maintain freshness during this mature phase.
What the critics say:
"A dense and centered red with dark berry, light raisin, dried mushroom character. Medium body, delicious fruit. Nicely done for a challenging 2014. A blend of cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc. Drink now. "
Tasting Notes
AppearanceDeep ruby with garnet highlights showing the wine's maturity at twelve years.
NoseConcentrated dark berry aromas lead, supported by dried fruit and earthy mushroom character. The bouquet shows the integration typical of a well-aged Bordeaux blend, with subtle dried herb undertones. Despite the challenging 2014 vintage, the fruit remains focused and appealing.
PalateMedium-bodied with well-integrated tannins that provide structure without overwhelming the fruit. The dark berry core is complemented by savoury elements and a touch of dried fruit sweetness. The Cabernet Franc adds herbal complexity to the Cabernet Sauvignon's cassis foundation.
FinishClean and persistent with lingering dark fruit and earthy mineral character.
Overall impressionA successful expression from a difficult vintage that drinks beautifully now with good balance and mature complexity.
Food Pairings
In Umbria, this style of wine traditionally accompanies robust local specialities like wild boar ragu with pici pasta or grilled lamb seasoned with local herbs. The region's famous black truffles pair excellently with structured red wines, often served with hearty pasta dishes or roasted meats. Umbrian cuisine favours grilled sausages, particularly the fennel-scented salsicce, alongside aged pecorino cheeses from the surrounding hills. The wine's structure complements the earthy flavours of porcini mushrooms and game birds that are staples of the local table.
We think this wine would go well with
Serve at 16-18°C to allow the mature fruit and savoury complexity to express fully. Decant for 30-45 minutes to integrate any settled sediment and allow the wine to open. Use large Bordeaux glasses to concentrate the developed aromas whilst providing adequate surface area for aeration.
The vineyards benefit from Umbria's continental climate with Mediterranean influences, providing ideal conditions for international grape varieties. The rolling hills offer excellent drainage and sun exposure, while the region's volcanic and clay-limestone soils contribute structure and mineral backbone to the wines. These conditions allow Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc to achieve full ripeness while retaining freshness.
This wine falls under the broader Umbrian IGT classification, which allows winemakers flexibility to work with international grape varieties outside traditional DOC constraints. Umbria's wine regulations have evolved to embrace both indigenous varieties and international grapes, reflecting the region's modern approach to quality winemaking. This flexibility has enabled producers like Falesco to craft distinctive wines that compete on the global stage whilst maintaining regional character.
The 2014 growing season in Lazio delivered the kind of classical conditions that allow the region's indigenous varieties to express their character with clarity. A relatively cool spring delayed budbreak slightly, followed by a warm but not excessive summer that maintained good acidity levels in the grapes. Harvest timing proved crucial, with producers who picked at optimal ripeness capturing the vintage's inherent balance between fruit concentration and the mineral backbone that defines Lazio's better sites.
This is a vintage that favoured Lazio's white varieties particularly well, with Frascati and other Malvasia-based wines showing excellent tension and longevity potential. The reds, while perhaps not reaching the intensity of the very finest years, display appealing freshness and food-friendly structure. Most 2014 whites are drinking beautifully now and will continue to do so for another three to five years, while the reds are approaching their peak drinking window and should be enjoyed over the next few years.
FAQs
What makes this a kosher wine?
Kosher wines must be produced under strict rabbinical supervision, with only kosher ingredients and methods used throughout the winemaking process. The wine must be handled exclusively by observant Jewish individuals from harvest through bottling.
How does the 2014 vintage affect this wine's quality?
2014 was a challenging vintage across much of Italy due to variable weather conditions. However, skilled producers like Falesco managed to craft concentrated, well-balanced wines that have aged gracefully over the past twelve years.
Why blend Cabernet Sauvignon with Cabernet Franc?
Cabernet Franc adds aromatic complexity and herbal character to Cabernet Sauvignon's structured cassis fruit. This classic Bordeaux combination creates more nuanced wines with better integration and food-pairing versatility.
Is this wine ready to drink now?
Yes, at twelve years old this wine has reached its optimal drinking window. The tannins have softened and the flavours are well-integrated, making it perfect for immediate enjoyment over the next 3-4 years.
How does Umbrian winemaking compare to Tuscany?
Umbria produces fewer wines than neighbouring Tuscany but often offers better value. Producers like Falesco focus on both indigenous varieties and international grapes, creating distinctive wines with strong regional character at accessible prices.
What food would you recommend with this mature red?
This wine pairs excellently with grilled red meats, game, aged hard cheeses, and mushroom-based dishes. Its mature character works particularly well with slow-braised preparations and charcuterie boards.
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