2015 Altrovino

The 2015 Altrovino is a decidedly powerful wine. Bittersweet chocolate, plum, espresso and dark spice all reinforce that first impression. There is not a ton of subtlety. Instead, the 2015 speaks with a loud, at times brash, voice. It will be interesting to see if the 2015 gains a bit more finesse with time in bottle.

This is among the wines I most admire from winemaking duo Luca D'Attoma and Elena Celli. The 2015 Merlot Cabernet Franc Altrovino is an austere red blend made without barrique. Instead, this vintage marks the first edition in which Tuscan clay amphorae plays a role as do large cement vats. Only a small percentage of the wine (15%) is aged in terra-cotta, but the wine's personality has been noticeably changed. This unique approach allows for more fruit expression and you certainly get that loud and clear in this wine. There is a wild, untamed and brambly element to the bouquet with forest floor, dark berry fruit, grilled herb and scorched earth. The wine shows a sharp and edgy personality that will soften with another year of bottle aging.