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Cervaro
della Sala is produced in Umbria which has a similar climate
to Tuscany but lacks the maritime influence. I tasted recently
the Cervaro della Sala 2005 vintage at a tasting organised by
one of my importers.
On the nose this
wine struck me with a delicate hawthorn floral character
first, so typical of top white Burgundy from the Cote de Beaune.
This aroma is sometimes mistaken with almonds but the molecules
are very similar so here is why. But there was more: the fruits
were lime, pineapple and a nutty aroma as well probably provided
by the Grechetto grape variety. The flavours were intense
and delicate. There was also a yeasty character and
some delicate and well integrated vanilla provided by the time
in oak.
On the palate
the wine was nearly perfectly balanced with
a fresh start demonstrating the good acidity. The Grechetto
is typical for high acidity, and the altitude of the vineyard
contribute to this thanks to the cool nights. The rich mid palate
demonstrated the structure of this wine along with reminding
me of the sunny location of the vineyard and the warm summer.
The aromas made a come-back with some good ripe lime and exotic
fruits and the nutty character lingering in my mouth for about
9 or 10 seconds which is long and put this
wine in the top category.
If I had to sum it up, I would
say it is like a ripe Burgundy and it can already be drunk now.
Could age up to 10 years. I would give it 17 points
out of 20.
Full details
Vineyard location: Castello
Della Sala Estate stands in the Umbrian Apennines, just 18 km
from the historical town of Orvieto. Vineyards are situated
between 200 and 400 meters of altitude bringing cool nights
and contributing to the good acidity.
Typical climate: Warm
summers and mild winters.
Soils: Clayey soil
of sedimentary and volcanic origins rich in Pliocene fossils.
Grape Varieties: 85
% Chardonnay and 15% Grechetto.
Vinification: Alcoholic
fermentation is done in 100% new French oak and there is a further
5 months aging on the lees in barrels. Then another 10 months
aging in bottle before release.
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