Skin-macerated Cortese from the Lombardia-Piemonte border. 12 days maceration, aged in acacia barrels. No sulfur added.

At a Glance

• Origin: Emilia-Romagna, Italy
• Varietal & Type: Cortese
• Vintage: 2023
• ABV: 13%
• Vineyard Soil: Limestone slopes of Torrazza Coste
• USNW Classification: Natural

Tasting Notes & Pairing

• Profile: Bright, lively aromas of white flowers, limestone, tangerine. Stone fruits, apricot, peaches, mango with a hint of limestone and playful almond finish.
• Food Pairing: Light fish, seafood pasta, aperitif
• Serving Temp: 46-50°F (Well chilled)

About the Winemaker

Lo Zio Vino is a natural wine project by winemaker Evan Kretmar, producing low-intervention wines from organic vineyards in Italy's Lombardia and Emilia-Romagna border regions.

Evan Kretmar, originally from St. Louis, developed his passion for Italian wine during university studies in Rome, where he studied ancient history and Etruscan civilization. Twelve years and thousands of miles later, he returned to the grapes he fell in love with—particularly Lambrusco Salamino—as the variety experienced a resurgence due to the proliferation of sustainable agriculture in Emilia-Romagna. His label artwork features iconographic elements including the Arch of Saint Louis, references to ornithology, and cheeky nods to Etruscan diviners who examined bird entrails to interpret the will of the gods.

Farming & Cellar: Grapes are sourced from organic producers on silty, sandy clay soils amidst the gentle hills outside Mirandola, with vines ranging from 20-30 years old, totally dry-farmed. Winemaking follows minimal intervention principles: brief macerations to preserve freshness, fermentation in Tuscan amphorae to round out edges and impart unique mouthfeel, extended aging in acacia barrels when appropriate, and no sulfur added at any time. The results are dangerously crushable, food-friendly wines often at lower alcohol levels.