Montalbera Ruche di Castagnole Monferrato LAccento, 2009

Ruche is another grape from the Piedmont area of Italy, not very well known. Montalbera is an estate that appreciates the unique qualities of Ruche and produces several versions. Compared to the Tradizione, which is made in the usual manner, this LAccento is produced from 80% grapes picked at optimal ripeness and 20% grapes that are over-ripe. The result is a richer and fatter wine, similar in some ways to Ripasso.

At 11 years of age, the color has rusty/brick tones but is still deep and bright. The wine has been aged in stainless steel, then in the bottle. Enticing scents of roses, violets and dark cherry; a Piedmont profile. In the mouth, the wine is rich and full bodied. Cherries, blueberries, black licorice. Tannins have faded to reveal strong fruit. Ripe but good acidity. Does not tire the taste buds as ripe New World reds tend to do.  

When first opened, the wine tasted as if it might be past its prime. But I have had this bottle open for three nights now, and the flavors are still developing nuances. Of course, it is not as flamboyant or serious as Nebbiolo or even a good Barbera, but, at $15 to $20 a bottle, it is well worth a try. It goes well with spicy Middle Eastern dishes.