Gravello

One doesn't automatically associate Calabria with good red wine. We recently enjoyed an exception called Gravello. The wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (surprise) and Gaglioppo. The latter grape was unknown to me, so a little due diligence was required.

Gaglioppo is a locally-grown grape whose historical associations include the ancient Greeks. The fruit requires specific nurturing and harvesting techniques in order to produce wine suitable for blending.

The 2004 vintage of the Gravello Val di Neto, which my wife and I enjoyed at a local Italian restaurant we like, had many desirable qualities. It has reasonable depth, solid structure, and smooth taste. I had a glass with a flavorful rack of pork, and the harmonious combination of Calabrian cuisine and regional wine was a lovely treat.

If you can find it, Gravello generally costs in the mid-thirties per bottle.