Letrari - Ballistarius IGT Dolomiti

Letrari Ballistarius IGT Dolomiti. The tradition of these well-reputed wines from the Lagarina Valley as being an important part of local life for centuries, is the inspiration for this red wine which shares the same notable character. Ballistarius is the result of a quality project involving the partnership of the land in Nogaredo, with vines from Borghetto all'Adige; the Letrari family's native area. The vines grow in a climate that proves ideal for cultivating both the indigenous and Bordeaux style grape varieties used in the blend. The vines grow amongst olive trees in poor and rocky soils, which provide excellent conditions for ripening the grapes.

Wine type: red wine - Ballistarius IGT Dolomiti.

Alcohol content: 13°

Region: Trentino Alto Adige, Rovereto,  Borghetto all' Adige e Nogaredo - Italy.

Grape/Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot e Lagrein.

Type soil: the soil is poor and rocky, the temperature is ideal in summer (partly due to the micro-climate created by the local wind, the Ora del Garda): vines here still co-exist alongside olive groves.The valley is more open here and the excellent sun exposure allows the grapes to ripen to perfection.

Colour: a garnet-edged, deep ruby.

Aroma: it displays a bouquet that immediately impresses for its self-confident impressions of crisp, fresh greens as well as darker notes of dried plum, redcurrant, and tamarind, rimmed with a subtle but unmistakable vein of spicy black pepper. It concludes with a pleasant hint of oak and black liquorice.

Tasting notes: the palate is superbly structured, with an appealing suite of expressive, well-crafted tannins that predominate over the smooth texture.

Serving suggestions: this full-bodied, favour-rich wine is ideal with first courses of sauced game, meat-filled raviolis of egg pasta, aged cheeses, steak, roasts, and game birds.

Please note that it is an offence to purchase or attempt to purchase alcoholic liquor if you are under the age of 18.

Editor's note: The Letrari winery has 23 hectares of vineyards located in various areas around Vallagrina. Its headquarters are in the modern winery at Borgo Sacco in Rovereto - Region Trentino Alto Adige - Italy.