MASSERIA PIETROSA Malvasia Nera 2008 A masseria is a farm in Puglia, and the term pietrosa means .stony. which applies to the low vigour soil on this estate. This estate is part of the co-operative at San Marzano, and the wines are made by Filippo Baccalaro. As a result, they are fresh and clearly varietal. The label shows a Puglian version of the fable, the Fox and the Grapes, where, unlike in Aesop‘s version which gives rise to the expression ‘sour grapes‘, the fox never gives up because the Puglian grapes are so good. Established in 1962, the San Marzano co-op has over 1000 members whose vineyards cover a huge area, spread over a wide variety of different terrains and microclimates. The grapes were hand-picked at the end of September/beginning of October. Pre-fermentation maceration took place followed by temperature controlled fermentation then gentle pressing. The wine was aged in French oak barriques for four months. Dense, deep ruby red in colour with an intense perfume of spiced cherries with a hint of cloves. On the palate the wine is robust and structured with ripe, juicy cherryish fruit and supple tannins, finishing long and spicy. Vintage 2008 Grape varieties 100% Malvasia Nera Region San Marzano Winemaker Filippo Baccalaro Closure Cork Alcohol (ABV) 13% Residual Sugar 7g/l Find this wine at www.winestore.co.uk Price: £66.00 (Including VAT at 20%)