About this wine
Vineyard and terroir
The grapes come from the company's vineyards around Colonnella, Ancarano and Roseto, in a hilly area with a distinctive microclimate and well-structured soils. The area lies between the high peaks of Gran Sasso National Park and the Adriatic coast. Gran Sasso is a mountain range in Abruzzo and the highest part of the Apennines.
Vinification
The grapes are hand-picked at optimum ripeness. The wine is made using free-run juice, which accounts for 10% of the total must. Fermentation starts at a low temperature to extract as many as possible of the polyphenols responsible for the deep colour, then the temperature is raised to 27 °C. Malolactic fermentation, which softens the wine, takes place in barriques of select American wood.
Ageing
Six months in the same American-wood barriques in which malolactic fermentation took place.
Tasting profile
Generous, rounded palate with plenty of fruit and a long, inviting finish. The aroma is bright, complex and remarkably persistent, with juicy berries and sweet spices. The ripe sweetness of the fruit reflects the Mediterranean sun.
Serving and pairing
Pairs with meat dishes such as steak and beef stroganoff, with game, and with appetizers.
Label / history
Gran Sasso began as a project of two friends, Valentino and Camilo, based in Abruzzo. The winery now belongs to the Farnese group, which owns wineries in several regions of Southern Italy.
