Sabbie di Sopra il Bosco (2014)

About this wine

This wine presents a deep ruby color with bright edges, offering a complex nose of blueberries, iris, lavender, juniper, and subtle spices. On the palate, it is fresh and fruity, with a notable minerality and dynamic character. The tannins are silky, and the alcohol is well-integrated, leading to a long, satisfying finish. The primary grape, Pallagrello Nero, is known for its fine tannins and strong personality, while Aglianico adds structure and acidity, and Casavecchia, sourced from centuries-old ungrafted vines, contributes depth and complexity. This combination results in a wine that is both elegant and full-bodied, showcasing the unique terroir of the Castel Campagnano region in Campania, Italy.

About the grape

Pallagrello Nero, Aglianico, and Casavecchia are three ancient grape varieties from Campania, Italy, each contributing unique characteristics to the 2014 Nanni Copè Sabbie di Sopra il Bosco Terre del Volturno IGT. Pallagrello Nero, once favored by the Bourbon kings and nearly lost to history, was rediscovered in the 1990s and is known for its thick skin and fine tannins. Aglianico, often called the "Barolo of the South," is renowned for its deep color and high acidity, providing structure and aging potential. Casavecchia, with its mysterious origins, adds complexity and depth, especially when sourced from ancient, ungrafted vines. Together, these varietals reflect the rich viticultural heritage of the region.

Quick facts

• 🏞️ The name 'Sabbie di Sopra il Bosco' translates to 'Sands Above the Woods,' reflecting the vineyard's sandy soils and elevated position above a forest.
• 👑 The primary grape, Pallagrello Nero, was once favored by the Bourbon kings of Naples and nearly went extinct before its revival in the 1990s.
• ⛱️ The vineyard's sandy, well-draining soils contribute to the wine's elegance and minerality.
• 🍷 The 2014 vintage of this wine received high praise for its complexity and balance, showcasing the potential of Campania's indigenous grape varieties.
• 🌱 The producer, Nanni Copè, meticulously manages the vineyard, often harvesting row by row or even plant by plant to ensure optimal grape maturity.

Palate profile

Producer

Nanni Copè was founded in 2007 by Giovanni Ascione, a journalist and professional taster with a deep passion for wine. Located in Castel Campagnano, a small village in the upper Caserta area of Campania, Italy, the winery is situated at an altitude of 215 meters, overlooking the Volturno River. The vineyards are characterized by steep slopes with sandy soils, contributing to the unique terroir. Ascione's meticulous approach involved obsessive care of each vine and manual harvesting of each bunch, leading to the production of a single acclaimed label, Sabbie di Sopra il Bosco. After a successful journey of over a decade, Giovanni decided to cease production, making the winery's offerings highly sought after.