LLS Portfolio Book 2015

Duca San Felice Cirò Rosso Classico Superiore Riserva DOC Duca San Felice is the name of the oldest vineyard owned by the Librandi family and the last one planted by Raffaele Librandi, the father of Antonio and Nicodemo. This vineyard is situated in the heart of the Ponta territory, which is considered one of the oldest and most important crus of the classic Cirò area. It is made entirely from Gaglioppo, a key indigenous variety that is thought to have been introduced from Greece to southern Italy.

Efeso Mantonico Val di Neto IGT Efeso is made from 100% Mantonico, one of the many indigenous grape varieties of Calabria that were cultivated for centuries before almost disappearing completely. Librandi is dedicated to recovering these historic grapes, of which Mantonico is one of the most important. Efeso (Ephesus) was the name of the Greek colony located in Turkey where the Librandi family believes the Mantonico grape originated. The grapes are hand-harvested in October from vineyards in the Rocca di Neto and Casabona areas. Malolactic conversion is completed in both new and used barriques to add extra roundess and texture. Efeso is then refined in barrique for an additional eight months.

Gravello Val di Neto Rosso IGT This is a “Super Calabrian” wine made from the indigenous Gaglioppo and international Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Gravello is a fantasy name, but “grave” in Italian means “serious” and “important,” which is a reference to the complexity and sophistication of this wine. The suffix of “-ello” makes this meaning a bit lighter, as the wine is accessible and drinking beautifully right now.

Le Passule Vino Passito Val di Neto IGT Le Passule, which means ‘raisins’ in the local dialect, provides an idea of what the ancient Greeks enjoyed in their day. Made entirely from the ancient variety of Mantonico Bianco with grapes that are dried for fifteen days until they become raisins, concentrating the sugars and flavors. Half of the grapes are dried on the plants to achieve the intensely concentrated dried fruit characteristics. The other half are dried in a temperature-controlled room to preserve freshness and acidity.

Magno Megonio Val di Neto Rosso IGT Made entirely from Magliocco grapes, Magno Megonio is named after a Roman centurion who was said to be the first to recognize the viticultural promise of the area and owned part of the estate that Librandi owns today. The family has been studying and experimenting with Magliocco for years, and although many growers have pulled up these vines in favor of planting grapes with more international renown, the Librandis continue their staunch advocacy of this most promising grape variety.

WINES OF SOUTHERN ITALY

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