‘Luigi e Giovanna’ 2019 Orvieto Classico Superiore – Barberani.
When you stroll through the picturesque streets of Orvieto on a hot summer day, you know it immediately; this is one of the most beautiful towns in Umbria. This small town in central Italy is built on a plateau of tuff. For the construction of many monumental buildings, stones were extracted from the plateau for centuries, resulting in underground passages and vaults.
Orvieto offers many attractions. Several museums, the dormant volcano Monte Amiato, the Cathedral Duomo di Orvieto and the 42m high Torro del Moro. From this tower you have a great view over the rolling landscape with many olive trees and vineyards. And precisely these vineyards make the city so special as far as we are concerned! What could be better after a long day in this beautiful Italian city? Exactly, a delicious glass of local wine. So, we end up with “Luigi E Giovanna” from Barberani.
About the Winery
Since 1961 the Barberani family have followed the ancient rite of harvesting with skilled hands, turning the grapes into a symphony of aromas and flavors in respect for their land and tradition. All the natural elements are present in this exciting landscape, soft and sensual, molded by steep hills. The soils of marine origin, clay and limestone, are composed of marl rich in fossils and shells dating from the Eocene period.
The rich ecosystem that surrounds the lake enhances flavor in grapes, the acidity, the light iodine scents and character typical of the Mediterranean. A character rich in nuances and fascinating contrasts, but determined and strong, like the passion of this family.
About the Region
South of the Podal lie the wine regions of central Italy. They are dominated by the Apennines, a mountain range that runs the length of the Italian peninsula. Here you will find several wine regions, including Umbria.
Umbria has a climate similar to that of Tuscany. However, here the Mediterranean influences are no longer present. Umbria has a mild Mediterranean climate with dry, hot summers. The heart of the region is formed by the Apennines and borders Tuscany to the West, the Marches to the East and Lazio to the South. Umbria is known as the green heart of Italy. The region’s rolling hills are covered with vineyards and olive groves, characterized by its many small walled villages that are often centuries old. Just like Orvieto.
About the Variaties
A wine classified Orvieto DOC Classico Superiore must consist of at least 60% Grechetto and Trebbiano, sometimes supplemented by local varieties.
Trebbiano is one of the most widely planted grape varieties in the world, due to its high yields. The grape usually produces light fresh wines. Fun fact, in the fourteenth century this grape moved with the Papal Court to France and was given the name Ugni Blanc.
Grechetto is a grape that originated in Greece. After many centuries in Italy, it is considered an authentic grape variety. It is a grape with a thick skin, which also allows it to be harvested late. This results in a high sugar content. Also, this thick skin ensures that the grape is well protected against diseases and thus suitable for organic viticulture. Usually Grechetto provides for structure in the blend.
About the Wine
The story of the family has been written by two figures, Luigi and Giovanna. They both have a love for indigenous grape varieties and botrytis. From the union of these two passionate visions, “Luigi E Giovanna,” comes the most representative wine of this mutual love of wine and life. The grapes used for this organic wine (Trebbiano and Grechetto) grow on calcareous soil and are hand harvested. They undergo fermentation for 20 days, with autochthonous yeasts. Also, a spontaneous malolactic fermentation takes place. What is furthermore interesting is the fact that some of the grapes used for this wine are touched by botrytis, adding extra character and enhancing the aromatic profile of the grapes.
This white blend has a beautiful golden yellow color. In the nose you find a feast of ripe peach and apple, lemon, grapefruit and a wonderful mineral tone. On the palette you experience a nice acidity completed by a very pleasant bitterness in the finish. The slightly oxidative touch makes this wine extra exciting.
We awarded this regional star with a 91-point DWA score. A unique blend that can be enjoyed young and stands the challenge of complex fish dishes, shellfish or even white meat. A beautiful family homage, well done Barberani family!
This review is written by our own Renée van Son. The Barberani wines are imported in the Netherlands by Vinites and available through associated retailers and restaurants.
Price: €46,95
Taste date: March 2023
Score: 91/100 DWA Score
Website: Barberani