Cantina Cincinnato Bellone Lazio Castore

From Cori, near Rome, one of the best terroirs for this rare, ancient variety. Med gold (perhaps indicative of premature aging or heat stress, since Bellone is supposed to be straw yellow). Med aromas of yellow apple, honey, ripe lemon, peach, w/ a pronounced floral note of white lily and acacia blossom. Dry, med to med (+) acidity, med alcohol (13%). The creamy and rounded palate finishes w/ a blood orange and grapefruit note. Med body, with med (+) intensity …

Dry honey and lemon on the nose; more stone fruit flavors on the palate (melons, white peaches). Also wax and cheese rind the palate, which are interesting. Medium bodied, pretty smooth.

Neutral-ish on the nose though it opened up a bit, lemon flesh, a hint of smoke. More full-flavored on the palate with lemon and orange. High acid with a brisk zippy quality. Food friendly.

Opened and poured. 100% bellone, not a grape I'm familiar with. Straw yellow colour. Fruity nose, peaches, with a delicate perfume. Fresh and smooth, plenty of fruit on the palate. Would suit pasta and fish. Probably still a little young, will keep a year or two.

Apples and a little gunsmoke on the nose. The palate is well rounded with a crisp finish. It's a little simple but refreshing enough. Probably wouldn't rush out for this at £12.

BWC. 13%

Tasted at Caviste's Italian wine tasting and supper, Hampshire, UK. Medium gold colour. Floral nose. Crisp, apricots, floral. Made from an old grape variety. Liked it.