Ca Botta Rubicondo 2019

Fascinating wine from Valpolicella in the Verona region of Italy (think ‘Romeo and Juliet’ and, of course, ‘Two Gentlemen of Verona’ – our star-crossed lovers might have been a touch young to enjoy wine, but no doubt Proteus and Valentine would have shared a glass). From the traditional varieties of Corvina and Rondinella to which they have, very un-traditionally, added some cooler climate Merlot. The fruit is then air-dried for two weeks – this is also the region of Amarone so it is a method that is second nature to these guys. The vineyards sit between 350 and 450 metres above sea level.

Ochre/red in colour, the nose gives forth notes of red berries and warm earth. Some forest floor touches with plums aromas and a medium body. Indeed it is perhaps even slightly reticent at this early stage, although attractive and offers a lingering finish. Fresh, a lighter style than many of the usual local reds, this is very pleasant drinking now and will continue to be so for several years.