Inama Carmenere Colli Berici Piu

Più’ means ‘more’ in Italian and there’s more than just Carmenere in this typical blend from the Colli Berici, a line of gently rolling volcanic hills in Italy’s north-east. Merlot is a civilising influence, the plumy accent and refined tannins marry well with a touch of French oak. The iron-rich clay soil over a limestone base is perfect for Bordeaux varieties and Carmenere, introduced in the 19th century, suffered from amnesia for decades. Cabernet Franc it most definitely is not – the soy sauce, cocoa and grainy tannins ought to have been unmistakeable.

All varieties are 100% destemmed. After 12 days' maceration in upright stainless fermenters with internal paddles the must is racked and malo occurs in steel. The wine is aged in 2nd ­fill 225l French oak barriques for 12 months. A fi­nal racking is followed by a gentle pad ­filtration before bottling. The wine is unfi­ned.

Vivid ruby core with a narrow purple rim. Pronounced nose with black cherry, damson, soy, cocoa and Parma violet. Elegant front-palate with fresh acidity, firm, integrated tannins and length.

At its best with local salami (sopressa, sopressa with garlic and Val Liona DOP ham) and grilled pork.