SITT

For more than a decade our intimate knowledge of Italy has allowed us to meet the demands of our clients for all things Italian. From mountainous crown to stiletto heel, Winetraders knows Italy like no other. Check out our new wallet-friendly red and whites from Sicily and the Marche in addition to the quirky, interesting and downright impressive wines on which our reputation has been founded.

Saladini Pilastri

Just north of the Abruzzo border nestled in the rolling hills behind the walled city of Ascoli Piceno lies the estate of Saladini Pilastri. They are one of the of the oldest families here and their 200 hectares includes the usual viticultural suspects (Trebbiano, Sangiovese and Montepulciano) as well as the Rhône rangers, Viognier and Syrah. All the vineyards are farmed organically, no hardship here where the summers are hot and dry. The Falerio is almost too good to be true: lively and full of fruit with more character than one has a right to expect at this price. It’s lissome and affordable and looks to Trebbiano for inspiration but draws in local talent in the form of Pecorino (just like the cheese) and Passerina. Floral on the nose with with apple and a faint herbal note the initial delicacy hides surprising body with healthy acidity and a bitter almond finish. It’s ideal with white meats or fish, and pasta. The Rosso Piceno is 90% Sangiovese and 10% Montepulciano and collects its thoughts in large old oak for a few months prior to bottling. This is quaffing wine par excellence and makes me wish I could discover Chianti that could deliver the same value for money.
Fattoria Nicodemi

The Nicodemi estate was founded in the early 20th century by Elena Nicodemi’s grandfather, Carlo. Bruno, his son, assumed the reins in the early 1960s and, helped by a second income from his medical practice, set about producing the best wines of the Abruzzo. A major replanting programme followed by a new cellar established Nicodemi as one of the region’s few producers who placed quality above quantity. Bruno passed away unexpectedly in 1998 and the estate faltered whilst Elena and her brother, Franco, decided just what they wanted to do.

Fortunately, Elena decided to turn her back on a promising career as an architect and returned to the homestead with a clarity of purpose I’ve seldom seen. Ably assisted by the talents of Federico Curtaz and Paolo Caciorgna these are shining examples of just what can be done with Italy’s native varieties. The Trebbiano is hugely expressive with ripe stone fruit, floral notes, and masses of mouth-watering acidity. The Montepulciano sports sufficient acidity and tannins to tame the bramble and black cherry fruit and it’s marvellous with kid, lamb, rabbit and game birds.

Contact

Michael Palij

Tel: 01993 848777
Fax: 01993 848778
Email: michael@winetraders.org.uk
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