Barone Montalto – Ammasso 2020 75 cl.

Ammasso is an exceptionally well-crafted Sicilian red wine inspired by the finest Ripasso wines but primarily made with locally typical grape varieties. Every possible effort has been made to ensure the highest quality in this ambitious red wine from southwestern Sicily.

For Ammasso, Barone Montalto sources grapes from high-altitude vineyards near Santa Ninfa, where low yields ensure concentration. The grapes are carefully hand-picked into small 5-kilo crates to preserve their integrity upon arrival at the winery. This is especially crucial for the portion of grapes undergoing drying (appassimento) to prevent any risk of rot. The blend consists mainly of the Sicilian Nero d’Avola and Nerello Mascalese, complemented by Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.

The majority of the grapes undergo traditional vinification, while a smaller portion is left to dry for four weeks in a well-ventilated storage area, reducing their water content by 15-20%. This natural concentration increases extract and sugar levels, adding richness and body to the wine. The enzymatic processes occurring during drying contribute to the wine’s complex aroma profile. The different components of the wine mature for 8-10 months in French barriques before blending.

The aroma and flavor are generous and inviting, offering a delightful balance of power and elegance—an element often missing in appassimento wines. Dominant notes of prunes, wild berries, and licorice are complemented by dried flowers and cedarwood, adding depth and complexity. The wine is full-bodied and intense, yet its tannins remain smooth, making for a refined and approachable drinking experience.

Enjoy Ammasso with simple yet robust meat dishes featuring wine-based sauces or grilled marinades when the occasion calls for bold flavors.

Serve slightly below room temperature at 15-18°C and enjoy now or over the next five years.