From: Roccatederighi, Tuscany, Italy
Varietal: Alicante Nero (Grenache), Carignano, Mourvèdre, Sangiovese, Alicante Bouschet
Taste: This is a translucent ruby hue with violet reflections in the glass. The nose is lively and aromatic, offering a mix of red berries, wild strawberries, pomegranate, and Mediterranean herbs, with subtle floral notes of lavender and dried rose petals. It is full-flavored yet fresh, with juicy red fruit complemented by spice and earthy undertones. The acidity is fresh and lifted, enhancing the wine’s energetic character, while fine-grained tannins provide a gentle grip. The finish is clean, bright, and subtly saline.
Pairing: Its high acidity and red fruit character pair beautifully with tomato-based dishes such as pappardelle al ragù or a rustic pappa al pomodoro. Grilled or roasted white meats, like rosemary-infused roast chicken or fennel-spiced pork tenderloin, highlight the wine’s herbal undertones. Its bright fruit and slight savoriness make it a great match for Mediterranean vegetable dishes, such as grilled eggplant with tahini or a vibrant Niçoise salad.
About: Ampeleia is situated in the village of Roccatederighi, nestled in the rolling hills of Tuscany’s Maremma region. Established in 2002, the estate is the outcome of a collaboration between innovative winemaker Elisabetta Foradori, Thomas Widmann, and Giovanni Podini. With a strong belief in the potential of Maremma’s terroir, their vision was to craft wines that reflect the unique landscape of this lesser-known part of Tuscany. Over the years, Ampeleia has grown into one of the region’s most captivating producers, creating elegant and nuanced wines from Mediterranean and alpine grape varieties.
The estate covers about 120 hectares, with 35 hectares devoted to vines, divided into three distinct altitude zones ranging from 200 to 600 meters above sea level. The diversity of these vineyard sites enables the cultivation of various grape varieties, including Cabernet Franc, Alicante Nero (Grenache), Carignano, Mourvèdre, and Trebbiano, among others. Each vineyard block is carefully matched to its soil composition and microclimate, ensuring that every variety achieves its fullest expression. The higher elevations, featuring cooler temperatures and limestone-rich soils, provide freshness and vibrancy, while the lower slopes, defined by clay and sand, add depth and richness to the wines.
