Winemaker Notes
The red grape of Castel del Monte is Troia (Troy), which has its origins in Greek antiquity. Santa Lucias Castel del Monte Rosso also consists of 25% Montepulciano and 5% Malbec. Aging is mostly in large French oak casks, which for the Riserva lasts for two years, followed by six months bottle age before release. The Troia gives structure, tannin and a warm spiciness, while the Montepulciano and Malbec add flesh and tone. This wine is dark, deep, and luscious, with a full body and fine texture.
Italian Red Wine
While picturesque hillsides, endless coastlines and a favorable climate serve to unify the grape-growing culture of this country. The apparent never-ending world of indigenous grape varieties gives Italy an unexampled charm and allure for its red wines. From the steep inclines of the Alps to the sprawling, warm, coastal plains of the south, red grape varieties thrive throughout.
The kings of Italy, wines like Barolo and Barbaresco (made of Nebbiolo), and Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino (made of Sangiovese), as well as Amarone (mostly Corvina), play center stage for the most lauded, collected and cellar-worthy reds. Less popular but entirely deserving of as much praise are the wines made from Aglianico, Sagrantino and Nerello Mascalese.
For those accustomed to drinking New World reds, the south is the place to start. Grapes like Negroamaro or Primitvo from Puglia and Nero d’Avola from Sicily make soft, ammicable, full-bodied, fruit-dominant wines. Curious palates should be on the lookout for Cannonau (Grenache), Lagrein, Teroldego, Ruché, Freisa, Cesanese, Schiopettino, Rossese and Gaglioppo to name a few.