Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
The fruit comes from a 1.25 ha estate vineyard in the hilly Nuj area of Castelcerino di Soave, within the historic Soave Classico zone. The site lies at 150 m above sea level and faces south–southwest. The rows run down the slope, and the vines are trained by vertical shoot positioning at a density of 6,250 vines/ha. Red grapes were already being cultivated in this locality 70 years before the wine’s description was written.
Grapes
75% Merlot, 12.5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 12.5% Cabernet Franc.
Vinification
Merlot is picked entirely by hand at slight overripeness, almost at the same time as Cabernet Sauvignon. Following crushing and destemming, the must ferments for around 12 days at 30–32°C, followed by approximately 10 days of skin maceration.
Ageing
Maturation lasts 24 months in 225 L oak barrels. The wine’s introductory description summarizes the period as 22–24 months in small barrels.
Technical data
Organic wine. Alcohol: 14.50% vol. Total acidity: 5.83 g/L as tartaric acid. Residual sugar: 2.32 g/L. pH: 3.44. Net dry extract: 32.50 g/L.
Tasting profile
Deep ruby in colour, with violet nuances in youth; another description notes a very slight garnet reflection and pronounced glycerol legs. The intense, finely drawn bouquet combines sour black cherry, blackberry and ripe red cherry with balsamic, spicy and lightly herbaceous accents. Vanilla, cooked plum and cherry also emerge. The palate is broad, warm, rich and structured, balancing alcohol with refreshing acidity. Its substantial tannins remain fine, soft and harmonious. Raisined cherry and cooked plum lead into a long finish of mature fruit.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 16–18°C and uncork one hour in advance. Pair with fine meats, roasts, game and aged cheeses; steak tartare is a specific suggestion.
Label / history
The name comes from the place-name “Nuj,” found on an original 1847 map owned by the Coffele family. Pronounced “noo-ee,” the dialect word is thought to mean noi—“us.”
