Red wine | Italy
Ah, the Casa Marzoni Appassimento Organic Wine! Let's dive into why this bottle deserves a spot in your collection, and more importantly, on your dinner table. This wine hails from Italy, a country renowned for its rich winemaking history and diverse terroirs. While the specific region isn't explicitly stated on the label, the term 'Appassimento' gives us a crucial clue. Appassimento refers to a winemaking technique where grapes are partially dried before fermentation, concentrating their sugars, flavors, and aromas. This method is particularly associated with the Veneto region, home to the famous Amarone wines, but it's also practiced in other parts of Italy, like Puglia. Casa Marzoni produces its wines in Puglia. This results in a wine that's often richer, fuller-bodied, and with a more pronounced fruit character than your average red. The label also proudly proclaims 'Organic Wine,' which means the grapes were grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers. This not only makes it a more environmentally friendly choice but can also lead to a wine that better reflects the natural characteristics of the grapes and the land. The name Appassimento already suggests a wine with concentrated aromas and flavors. Expect notes of ripe red and black fruits like cherry, plum, and blackberry, often accompanied by hints of dried fruit like raisin or fig. The drying process can also impart subtle notes of spice, chocolate, or even a touch of balsamic. On the palate, the Casa Marzoni Appassimento is full-bodied with soft tannins, a velvety texture, and a long, warming finish. The higher concentration of sugars can create a perception of sweetness, even if the wine is technically dry. The alcohol percentage will be a bit higher, because of the drying process. I think around 14% should be reasonable. This wine is incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairings. Its bold flavors and smooth tannins make it a great match for grilled or roasted meats like lamb, beef, or game. It also pairs beautifully with hearty pasta dishes, especially those with rich tomato sauces or meat ragu. For cheese lovers, it's a fantastic partner for aged cheeses like Parmesan, Pecorino, or Gouda. For a vegetarian option, try it with roasted vegetables like eggplant or bell peppers, or a hearty lentil stew. Think about pairing it with dishes such as: Osso buco, Lamb ragu or Mushroom risotto. In summary, the Casa Marzoni Appassimento Organic Wine is a bottle that offers both character and quality. It's a testament to the art of Italian winemaking, crafted with respect for nature and a commitment to delivering a truly memorable experience. So go ahead, uncork a bottle and let yourself be transported to the sun-drenched vineyards of Italy. Skål!