Spring has a certain freshness to it, and we couldn’t imagine a more fitting wine to celebrate it than this one.
We are pleased to feature the Gavigliano Lacrima di Morro d’Alba DOC Superiore, produced by Luciano Landi in the Marche region of Italy. Made from the Lacrima grape, this red wine is excellent for spring sipping and has a very fresh violet aroma that is unique among red wines. Lacrima is well known within Marche but little known outside; however, the locals regard it as a wine with high potential. It is not to be confused with Lachryma Christi del Vesuvio, a wine from further south in the region of Campania, and made from Piederosso and Aglianico.
The grape: Lacrima, the Italian word for “tear”, is named this way because the grape will weep if it is left on the vine for too long.
The winemaking process: this wine sees some time in new oak, but only enough to add complexity and balance those floral characters.
The family: Luciano Landi is a 4th generation family producer, now managed by the grandson, Gabriele. Luciano Landi was instrumental in reviving wines made from Lacrima. They operate an agriturismo, a farmhouse getaway for vacationers in this classic part of Marche wine country. In addition to the Lacrima, they produce white wines made from Verdicchio, a grape that is gaining recognition as a world class white wine.
The location: Luciano Landi is located in the Marche region, in central Italy along the eastern coast and the Adriatic Sea. Marche has invested considerable money into its tourism industry, and features some of the best beaches in Italy. Further inland, there is plenty of outdoor activity, like hiking at Monti Sibillini, the mountains of legendary witches who whisper the future. Landi is just north of the Medeival town of Jesi.
The wine: there is a stark purple color that reflects the grape; it has an intense aroma of fresh cut violets. There are dark cherry and blackberry fruit components, the floral note, and just the right amount of balance from the oak, with vanilla and cinnamon/clove. It is medium bodied with smooth tannin, and can be served with a bit of chill on it if desired.
What to eat with it: best served with a traditional Marche cacciatore, made with fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil (and no tomatoes), with chicken or rabbit parts braised in wine.
We will feature this wine during a live tasting on Instagram on Wednesday, May 26 at 7 pm US ET.