Montepulciano, 2015. Coste Di Moro

Cantina Orsogna is a cooperative of 600 farmers committed to organic and biodynamic farming In Abruzzo. Cantina Orsogna started in 1964, adopted organic practices in 1995, and in 2003, started to convert from organic to biodynamic. These wines are sold under the name Lunaria.

Abruzzo is a mountainous region on the Adriatic coast about two hours north of Rome. Coste di Moro's vineyards are located between the Majella Mountains and the sea, where the high altitude of the vineyards provides the ideal climate for winemaking and limits the threat of insects and fungus. Known for rustic artisan wines that pair well with traditional Italian food, it is one of Italy's best regions for quality and value.

Camillo Zulli is the co-op's director. He works with five or six cow farms that provide compost specifically for the biodynamic growers he collaborates with. He oversees crop rotation, planting legumes throughout the vineyards in order to bring organic nutrition to the land. During the grape harvest, all the growers pitch in and convene at Cantina Orsogna where the wine is finally made and bottled. Upon bottling, the wines are adorned with the traditional, country-style rope wine seal. The rope tying process is entrusted to the BABALU, the Friendship Farm, supporting employment for persons with special needs.

Lunaria's Coste di Moro produces a noble expression of Montepulciano, the definitive red varietal from Abruzzo. These wines are often noted for their dry, rich, and powerful character and their vibrant dark color. The grapes are destemmed, fermented with native yeasts, and aged, half in oak barrels and half in stainless steel tanks, enhancing the natural aromas of black cherry, cocoa, and red fruit. Warm tannins are immediately apparent on the palate, leading way to a silky organoleptic finish. Pair this wine with a rich salami, Asiago and Parmesan cheese for an appetizer, or main dishes such as beef brisket, braised goat meat, and shepherd's pie with baked potatoes, roasted beets, or roasted mushrooms.

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