One of my recent wine club selections was the 2023 Cantina Massara Pelaverga di Verduno. Yes, Lou finds the best wines for his wine club. If he selects it, I know I'll like it.
The Italian Pelaverga grape variety is pretty rare. Only about seventy-five acres of it are still under cultivation, and Lou says only eleven growers even bother to cultivate it. All of those growers are located in or near the Piemontese commune of Verduno.
Only grape growers in Verduno are allowed the privilege of putting their denomination on the label: Pelaverga di Verduno. Outside of this area, a Pelaverga grower would have to call it simply a vino rosso. These growers do grow Nebbiolo grapes and make very fine Barolo wines that get all the glory, says Lou. But Pelaverga is considered a special grape in Verduno, part of the area's heritage that deserves to be preserved.
As a side note, Lou describes the origin of the grape's name, with an apology for anyone who might be offended. I'll just say the name stems from the Italian "pela," which means "to peel," and "verga," which translates as "rod." Let your imagination run wild.
The 2023 Cantina Massara Pelaverga di Verduno comes from the chalky, sandy soil of three different vineyard sites in the village. Steel tank vinification takes eight days, and the wine stays in the tank to age for six months. Alcohol sits at 13.5% abv and the wine sells for around $35.
This wine has a light ruby red color. Its nose is bright and elegant, with aromas of pomegranate, cherry, and an herbal note that smells a bit like rosemary. The palate shows cherry, raspberry, and spice aromas, all cloaked in a delightful earthiness. The acidity is racy and fresh. The finish lasts awhile, and brings in a note of cherry candy.
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