There are lots of reasons to get outside this weekend: concerts, farmer’s markets and even Shakespeare (in High Park) have all gone al fresco, to borrow the Italian phrase. In Italian, “al fresco” means “in the cool air” and normally refers to dining, although it has now been adopted for many purposes. So get outside, and if you want to bring along something Italian to sip on, Terra d’Aligi Tatone Montepulciano d’Abruzzo does very well al fresco. Just make sure you’re allowed to BYOB first!
Tasting Notes: After 24 months in large oak barrels, then further time in bottle, Terra d’Aligi Tatone 2014 has evolved into a well-integrated wine showing black currant and red berry fruit, violet notes, and sweet baking spices, all with a fresh, balanced acidity.
Enjoy With: Hard cheeses, pasta and grilled meats are best - think pork tenderloin or burgers. The 2014 Terra d’Aligi Tatone is also a great sip on its own, especially after a few minutes in the fridge to bring it just below room temperature.
Style: A dry, medium-bodied, fruity red wine.
Terroir/Region: In the Italian region of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo the main grape is (wait for it…), Montepulciano. A red grape with the same name as the region sounds easy to remember, right? But the wine world is never that easy since there is also Vino Nobile de Montepulciano from Tuscany which uses the Sangiovese grape. When you’re shopping, you have to know your Montepulcianos!
Producer: The Spinelli family is described as authentic Abruzzi: feet on the land and looking to the future. “Feet on the land” expresses their deep knowledge of the land they are from and what it can produce. By looking ahead, they have brought the wines of their family and region to the world, learning new techniques as they travel and building a passionate following of wine lovers wherever they go.
Availability: The 2014 Terra d’Aligi Tatone Montepulciano d’Abruzzo can be found in the Vintages section of your local LCBO and will be available for online ordering on Saturday July 20. Grab a bottle and go al fresco!
Check LCBO store inventory
Price: $15.95
LCBO#: #994616
Size: 750mL
Alcohol Content: 13% alc./vol.
