Monday, January 07, 2013

2011 Montesole LACRYMA CHRISTI DEL VESUVIO ROSSO (Campania, Italy)

A bright, minerally, high-toned red.  I got it for $36 at a restaurant in Charlottesville, so I think that would make it something that would retail for between $15 and $20.  Both stylistically and price-wise, consider this wine as an alternative to a Valpolicella.

Dark black ruby with violet highlights.  Vibrant nose of crunchy, ripe cherry and very clean, stony minerals.  Feels very lively in the mouth, with intense cherry fruit, lots of minerality, and crisp acids.  Medium-full body, and a soft texture with just enough microtannin to be discernible if you concentrate.  Fun to drink, and extremely food-friendly.  Will drink nicely for at least 2 more years.  B+.  Imported by Artisans & Vines, Richmond, VA.

(Sorry, Fiano di Avellino label shown, but the labels are somewhat similar.)

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