2014 Corte Sant’Alda, Ca’ Fiui, Valpolicella DOC, Veneto Italy.
The wonderfully aromatic and delicately flavored all natural Corte Sant’Alda Ca’ Fiui Valpolicella is a perfumed joy in the glass with light layers of dark fruits, mineral and exotic spices. Native yeasts and low sulfur make this pretty blend of Corvina Grossa, Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara really stand out and shine brightly with a heady nose full of rose petals, rose oil and sticky lavender. The hue is dark ruby with a blueish core and while light to medium in body there is beautiful detail, ripe mouth feel and vitality in this stylish and charming Valpolicella. Black cherry, plum, crushed flowers lead on the palate along with bright herbs, peppery spice and a hint of red peach flesh, this is similar to Cru Beaujolais in style/weight and finishes with dry stoniness, minty herb and tangy acidity. Corte Sant’Alda makes a gorgeous Soave as well, and I can’t wait to try their more complete lineup in the future, both the wines I tried had an inner beauty and energy that was quite captivating and sensual, especially this Ca’ Fiui Valpolicella, imported by Portovino Imports/Regal Wine Co. Drink this lovely red over the next 3 to 5 years, this is impressive and a winery to look for.
($26 Est.) 91 Points, grapelive
