Heartland Sposa e Sposa Dolcetto-Lagrein 2021

What a revelation this is, nothing short of amazing. It opens up immediately with plum and blueberry characters, showing generous fruit forward appeal. The palate is silky, soft and medium bodied. It reveals a lovely detail — an intriguing sinewy texture as it finishes — a reminder that this is a bit of a wild card, and a great one at that. The greatest attribute of this Dolcetto-Lagrein is its acidity, which offers a focused structure and vigorous drive across the palate, without any oak influenced flavours. It benefits from chilling, as its dark fruit personality increases, making it easier to drink. I enjoyed a halloumi couscous salad to match which included pear, spring onion, sliced boiled egg and cherry tomatoes with chorizo on the side. The spicy edge is counterbalanced by the vivid plummy finish, adding further interest to the experience. This is an earthy and rustic food match that allows the wine’s moreish personality to shine.