Collefrisio – the perfect wines for summer

The Collefrisio vineyard was born in an area known for the wine culture in the Abruzzo region, right on the hills of Frisia in the Chieti Province. The geographical context favors vine planting and wine production, while maintaining quality standards. The constant ventilation of the area due to the mountains around this region is a key element for the health of the vineyard and grapes throughout the growing season. Climate elements such as the wind, predominantly rocky soil, and frequent changes in temperature in the area lead to a slowdown in the accumulation of sugar in grapes, a slower ripening, but preserving flavors and acidity, especially due to the cool nights in September and October. Quality begins in the vineyard and the producers admit that the well-keeping of the vineyard will produce good wine, so both grapes and the vineyard are carefully monitored for  the grapes to be harvested when they reach the optimum level of ripening. 

The wines we have the chance to taste and which I consider to be perfect for this summer will quickly be on my list of favorites and I want to present them briefly. Collefrisio Vignaquadra Passerina is a white wine from 100% Passerina grapes. With 12.5 volumes, the wine is distinguished by a pale straw with light green reflections. A powerful perfume with suave citrus flavors and a balanced acidity, an ideal wine for hot summer evenings.

We also have the chance to taste the Collefrisio Vignaquadra Pecorino, from the white wine series. Obtained from 100% Pecorino through low temperature maceration and a controlled temperature fermentation, the wine promises notes of fresh peaches and green tea, with an intense and well-balanced taste.

Let`s make a transition to the rose world. Collefrisio Rose, wine made from 100% Montepulciano d`Abruzzo, presents a beautiful and clear color that reminds us of cherries, it has delicate pink reflections, with floral notes but well structured for a complete experience. As similar to the range of white wines, we talk about low temperature maceration after destemming and controlled temperature fermentation in stainless steel tanks.

Although summer is devoted mainly to white and rose wines, well, we could say that a red wine can be appropriate if it is associated with the right dishes or consumed as such on a summer evening when you are on vacation. Collefrisio Morrecine comes from 100% Montepulciano d’Abruzzo. Grapes are harvested towards the end of September beginning of October. Traditionally, the skin is kept in contact with the liquid for about 20 days, fermentation taking place in stainless steel tanks. The wine is distinguished by the intense ruby color with purple reflections, with notes of berries, black cherry, with a good and well-balanced structure.

Collefrisio Appasimento is at least spectacular. 60% Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, 20% Sangiovese and 20% Merlot – three grape types in a love dance we could say. Harvesting for the first two varieties is done in October, and Merlot grapes are harvested somewhat earlier at the end of September. Vinification is at least interesting because the grapes have a drying period on the plant followed by destemming and fermentation in stainless steel tanks. With intense color, ruby and purple tones, the wine comes with strong notes of forest fruits as well as notes of dry plum with a spicy, but well-balanced  taste at the same time.

I have often said that wines are an exploration of both the world of this ancient beverage and of our own self, because tasting we really figure out which ones characterize us and which suits our personality. It’s a story, an initiating journey into the world of grapes.

Collefrisio wines can be purchased in Cluj-Napoca from Top Drinks or through the official distributor Mica Italie

text: Ileana Bocu