Andrea Occhipinti ‘Alea Viva’

Andrea Occhipinti ‘Alea Viva’- a decidedly authentic display of the Aleatico di Gradoli grape; gusty freshness swirls vehemently from one’s glass. Classically dry, in spite of the fact that most Aleaticos are sweet in style, this is a naked vessel of ruthless energy. The vines are grown on volcanic soils, ranging in age from 13 to 32 years old. Having been hand-harvested, the grapes are macerated on their skins for 15 days prior to fermentation in cement tanks. Subsequently, the wine is aged for 18 months in either cement or stainless steel. An aromatic nose harmonises a racy red fruit expression, aniseed and floral components before a tantalising spiced quality comes alive on the palette. Crunchy raspberry and sour cherry are balanced by warming notes of nutmeg and mountain herbs. Lastly, a well-varnished tannic structure concludes this terroir-driven journey.

Andrea Occhipinti discovered his love for the Gradoli vineyards while studying at the Agrarian University of Tuscia. He managed to purchase four hectares of vines, planted 450 metres above sea level. They are situated on the volcanic slopes of Lake Bolsena; there is exposure to an incredibly unique microclimate here. This, paired alongside Andrea’s obstinate preservation of ancient indigenous varietals, help to create proud expressions of this region. He works mainly with Aleatico di Gradoli, as well as Grechetto Rosso (a not-too-distant cousin of Sangiovese) through his process, urges them to be as distinct and pure as possible. The vines are of course farmed organically and the grapes are manually harvested. Moreover, the cellar-intervention is kept to an absolute minimum.

Andrea Occhipinti ‘Alea Viva’- a wine that is truly alive and kicking. Vivacious and unapologetically authentic, one cannot help but smile after every sip.

Additional information

Grape

Aleatico di Gradoli

Colour

Red

Region

Lazio

Bottle Size

75cl

Style

Red

Andrea Occhipinti ‘Alea Viva’ – An aromatic nose harmonises a racy red fruit expression, aniseed and floral components before a tantalising spiced quality comes alive on the palette. Crunchy raspberry and sour cherry are balanced by warming notes of nutmeg and mountain herbs.

29.00

In stock