Berritta’s “ISTRANZU” is a full-bodied, elegant and austere red wine made from 100% Syrah, from c.ca 20 years-old vines. Harvested by hand in late August/early September, the accurately selected Syrah grapes, after destemming, start their alcoholic fermentation for about 20 to 30 days in a French oak conical fermenter with the skins, with repeated daily manual punching down, until the sugars are completely depleted. It is then gently pressed with a manual press, and afterwards transferred into medium/small wooden barrels. Ageing continues then for about 12 to 24 months in French oak barrels, subsequently hand-bottled and left unfiltered. It rests then a few months in bottles before market release. Result: a varietal Syrah with purple red & violet highlights appearance, a fine and austere olphactory profile, with notes of marasca cherry and plum, warm spices such as cloves and black pepper, and bitter chocolate. The sip is dry with silky tannins, well-tempered by the period spent in barrels. Warm, enveloping and with a full body, a big red for lengthy ageing. Food match: it will make a great combination for earthy, comfort-food dishes such as beef stews, roasted and grilled meat from the BBQ, pasta alla Bolognese, earthy mushroom risotto with time & rosemary, and aged cheeses. Recommended serving-temperature of 16°-18°C.
