Le Coste Rosso di Gaetano 2022

Le Coste is the Lazio estate of Clémentine Bouveron and Gianmarco Antonuzzi, who bought 14 hectares of vineyard and olive trees in the hills north of Rome to revive old vines and traditional farming. Rosso di Gaetano is their approachable everyday red, led by Sangiovese with Merlot and Syrah in support, grown on volcanic soils at altitude. The elevation brings cool nights that hold the acidity high, which is why the wine stays so fresh, while Sangiovese lends its trademark tart cherry and a savoury, herbal character. The estate works with minimal intervention, fermenting with native yeasts and adding nothing, so the wine is a direct expression of the vintage and the site. The result is light bodied at 12.5 per cent, with sour cherry, red currant and raspberry, dried herbs and a firm, earthy structure. The acidity is bright and the tannins are light and grippy, making it a natural food wine. Serve lightly cool at 15 to 16 degrees. It is at its best with tomato based dishes and simple roast meats.