The Marco Carpineti estate stands in Cori, south of Rome, and has belonged to the family for several generations. Marco, the current owner, has adopted organic production methods since 1994.
The estate currently counts around forty hectares of vineyards with a south-southwest exposure in the localities of Capolemole, Pezze di Ninfa and Valli San Pietro, on volcanic soils rich in rocky fragments and tufo, which lend a strong mineral character to all the wines.
Here they cultivate Bellone, Arciprete Bianco and two varieties of Greco among the whites, and among the reds, Montepulciano, Cesanese and Nero Buono di Cori, which we invite you to taste.
The Nero Buono grape variety is native to the municipality of Cori in the province of Latina, where nearly all of its production is concentrated. It owes its name to the fact that, in ancient times, it was the celebration wine for local farmers, to be enjoyed only on special occasions. Over time it was downgraded to a blending wine due to its strong anthocyanin content, which helps ensure excellent quality even through very long aging, but which demands careful handling to avoid producing a harsh, difficult-to-drink wine, especially in its youth.
We are about to taste Nero Buono 2010 Lazio IGT Apolide; the name "Apolide" (stateless) reflects a long-running dispute with the Ministry, which for years has refused to associate this grape variety with Cori, listing it simply as "Nero Buono."
In appearance it presents a very deep ruby red with some orange reflections, yet remarkably brilliant.
On the nose a clear note of marasca cherries in spirit and plum comes through, with balsamic hints and slightly evolved notes.
On the palate a very pronounced acidity is apparent, along with a still somewhat disjointed, slightly closed character. The tactile sensation of powerful tannins and structured acidity underscores the need for further bottle aging – after which this wine could deliver truly outstanding satisfaction.
What do you think?
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