Scala Cirò Rosso Classico Superiore Riserva 2021

Scala is a family estate in Cirò, on the Ionian coast of Calabria, with roots in the seventeenth century and commercial winemaking since 1949. This Classico Superiore Riserva is made from Gaglioppo, the region's signature red grape, grown on sun-baked hillside vineyards near the sea. The warm Mediterranean climate ripens Gaglioppo fully, while the coastal breezes and the grape's naturally pale colour and firm tannin give wines that are savoury rather than heavy. The Riserva ages 18 months split between barrel and cement tanks: the barrel rounds the tannins through slow oxygen exchange, while the inert cement preserves freshness and primary fruit, the two together giving an open, traditional profile. The colour is medium garnet, paling at the rim. The nose shows red cherry and wild berries, with dried Mediterranean herbs, leather, earth and a faint orange-peel lift. The palate is medium to full bodied, fresh and savoury, the tannins fine and slightly dusty, the finish long with liquorice and herbs. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. It suits grilled lamb, beef and tomato-rich pasta.