2023 Tenuta Santa Maria - Veronese Rosso IGT Pragal (750ml)

Sourced across two distinct valleys in Valpolicella Classica, the 2023 Tenuta Santa Maria Pragal delivers a structured IGT red that marries heritage Corvina with Merlot and Syrah for broader aromatic reach. The Bertani family farms Corvina on terraced, southeast-facing slopes in Negrar, where calcareous clay soils sit between 120 and 220 meters above sea level. Merlot and Syrah contribute additional weight from the Illasi valley floor, utilizing free-draining alluvial gravel and limestone to moderate water stress during ripening. Winemakers employ a selective drying technique, partially applying the appassimento method to a segment of the harvest before a long maceration cycle, and mature the blended wine in large neutral oak casks for approximately six months to integrate texture while preserving primary fruit intensity.

The 2023 pours a deep ruby foundation edged with garnet highlights. Concentrated black cherry, stewed plum, and candied rose unfold initially, giving way to deeper layers of cured tobacco, cracked black peppercorn, and toasted cinnamon bark. The mouthfeel is broad and immediately accommodating, driven by soft, supple tannins and a defining thread of crisp acidity. This structural balance allows the savory herbal undertones and fine mineral dust to carry through a notably long, clean finish.

• Hard, aged cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano or Pecorino Toscano
• Braised red meats including short ribs, duck confit, or slow-cooked lamb shoulder
• Traditional Italian preparations like wild mushroom ragù, sausage and fennel pasta, or baked lasagna
• Cured charcuterie boards paired with roasted eggplant caponata or grilled fennel