La Biancara Rosso Masieri 2023

La Biancara is the Veneto estate of Angiolino Maule, a pioneer of natural wine who left pizza-making in 1988 to plant vines in the hills of Sorio di Gambellara. This red blends Merlot with Tai Rosso, the local name for Grenache, and is farmed organically and made with natural methods. The Gambellara hills are volcanic, built on basalt and tuff, soils that give the wines a savoury, mineral edge and keep the fruit bright. The wine is fermented and aged eight months in stainless steel tanks, with no oak, so the focus stays on primary fruit and freshness. Steel ageing protects the wine's vibrant colour and lively aromatics, while Tai Rosso lends a peppery, herbal lift to Merlot's red fruit. The colour is a vivid, bright red. The nose shows fresh cherry and red berries with a spiced, herbal note. The palate is light bodied and juicy, with soft tannins, fresh acidity and a clean, lightly spiced finish. Serve lightly chilled at 14 to 15 degrees. It suits grilled pork, chicken and tomato-based dishes.