2013 Cà Dei Frati Lugana “Brolettino” Lombardy, Italy
“The Brolettino cuvée is Cà Dei Frati’s top white and comes from some of their oldest vines – over 40 years old. 2013 turned out to be a fine vintage following a long ripening period in the autumn, and this wine is drinking just beautifully right now” Nick Adams MW
The secret of the success of the Cà Dei Frati property, situated on the southern shores of Lake Garda, is the Dal Cero family’s outstanding vineyards. Back in 1987 they had 12 hectares of vineyard, but now, following the purchase of a large chunk of prime vineyard in 2008, they have over 100 hectares.
Their investment in their model winery has meant that the increase in quantity has been matched by an increase in quality and today they are probably the best producer in Lugana.
The first reference to Cà Dei Frati, is a censor dating from 1782 which refers to today’s winery as ‘il luogo dei frati’ or house of the monks. In 1939, Domenico Dal Cero and his son, Felice, moved from more general farming activities in Montecchia di Crosara in Verona to Sirmione, where they started to cultivate vines. Thirty years later, Pietro Dal Cero produced and bottled the entire production under the name Cà Dei Frati and now his children run the estate and make the wines.
At Cà Dei Frati, the vines are trained low with a higher density of planting, and yields are well below the average for the zone. The Brolettino single vineyard source comes from old vines planted on clay soils. The wine is a blend of stainless steel and barrel fermented material – all using the local Turbiana grape variety. Partial malolactic creates a lovely balance between enhanced texture and refreshing acidity. This is a plush, poised and highly individual wine.
Traditionally served with veal and a cream sauce however it will work just as well with chicken supreme or pork chops served with quite a robust sauce, including a touch of grain mustard. A good vegetarian option is vegetable lasagne.
£24 per bottle
