2018 Tenuta Montecchiesi, MIRALÝ Rosé Intrigant Toscana IGT (dalcerofamily.it)
About the Family: In 1934 Augusto Dal Cero began planting vines in the mineral-rich upper slopes of two dormant volcanos in Roncà (Soave), Italy. Having his vineyard project interrupted by service in WWII, Augusto returned after five years in the N. African desert, completing his planting at volcano-top, with “Only the clouds above the vines.”
Passing responsibilities to sons Dario and Giuseppe at an early age, the Dal Cero family eventually purchased estates in Toscana (Tuscany) and Valpolicella (Veneto). Today, a third generation of Dal Ceros; Davide (Production & Winemaking), Alberto (Vineyard Management), Nico (Domestic Market), and Francesca (Export Sales) manage operations.
About the Estate: Purchased in the ’80s as a small eight-hectare estate near Cortona, Tenuta Montecchesi now comprises five times original size, of multiple grape varietals, on Toscana’s gently rolling slopes of sand, clay and silt – 300 metres above sea level.
About Cortona: Fifty kilometres east of Siena, Cortona is a picturesque hilltop town on Toscana’s eastern reaches. A walled and steep (only one non-gradient street) 14th C. town, it offers an array of cobblestone streets and Pietra Serena stone buildings. Cortona features stunning vistas of the neighbouring countryside all the way to the region of Umbria (Jazz Festival anyone?!).
It is also the setting for the Frances Mayes novel, Under the Tuscan Sun.
About the Blend: A unique rosé combination of varietals, Miralý judiciously balances Sangiovese’s acidity, Syrah’s heft and Vermentino’s freshness. An intriguing and stand-alone entry in the Alberta market.
About the Wine: The lovely light-salmon appearance leads into a bouquet of minerals, flowers and tree-ripened peaches. On the palate, the medium body belies Miralý’s light appearance, as bone-dry crabapple and stone fruit flavours present on a mineral platform. The finish is crisp, stony and long.
About Pairing: Salads, pan-fried fish, sampler plates, turkey with dressing.
About Sustainability: Biodynamic farming practices. Zero chemicals involved. All natural practices.
About Price: $26
About Alcohol Level: 12.5% abv
About Availability: Check liquorconnect.com (call the listed store too) confirming availability.
CSPC #812331
