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Mission Codename: L’italiano in Cuore

Operative: Agent White

Objective: Acquire a unique and purely Italian Sangiovese

Mission Status: Accomplished!

Current Winery: Cantina Tudernum

Wine Subject: 2005 Sangiovese dei Colli Martani

Backgrounder:

Colli Martini DOC is located in central Italy’s Umbria region. The wines from this appellation tend to be varietal wines, often with the addition of small percentages of other approved native or imported, often times French, varietals. The same region is very well known for the festive Montefalco Sagrantino wines.

Today’s selection is 85% Sangiovese with the addition of 15% Merlot. Not technically a Super Tuscan, but similar in its character, aromas and flavors.

Wine Spies Tasting Profile:

Look – Dark and deep ruby red with a dark but clear ruby core. Along the edges, the color lightens to a brickish-pink and when swirled, this slightly thicker wine hangs on the edge of the glass before forming medium-thin legs that descend to the wine below.

Smell – Medium-bold in intensity with bright and sweet aromas of candied red fruit, and dusty brambles layered over notes of black licorice, dark chocolate cocoa, vanilla and hints of smokey oak.

Feel – Rich, tangy and full-bodied, this dry wine has firm textured tannins and bright acidity. A note of dark minerality and spice spreads across the palate and lingers into the finish.

Taste – Rich in character with fleshy ripe and tart red and black fruit are held in place over flavors of licorice, toasted oak, and dusty and textured minerality. Powdered dark cocoa and spice linger on the tip of the tongue.

Finish – Long and expansive on the palate with lingering spice, minerality and textured tannins holding on to the ripe and tart fruit.

Conclusion – The 2005 Sangiovese dei Colli Martani is a classic Italian wine with real Umbrian character that shines through on its distinct terroir driven minerality. The addition of a small amount of Merlot adds subtle complexity and softens an often aggressive Sangiovese. Great acidity and structure makes this wine great for pairing with the richest of Italian foods, but also easy enough to pair with simple delivery pizza.

Mission Report:

Agent White is currantly A.W.O.L. – It is assumed that he is somewhere near Todi, Italy attempting to procure an interview with the winemaker of today’s selection. If you’ve seen or heard from him, please contact our operations center right away.

Wine Spies Vineyard Check:

The location of the Cantina Tudernum can be seen in this satellite photo.