Semplicemente Vino Bellotti Rosso. A Vibrant red. Simply the best!

Vino Bellotti Rosso. A vibrant red. Simply the best!

Semplicemente Vino Bellotti Rosso 2021, 13.5% ABV

RRP: €23.95. Stockists include 64 Wine Dublin, Bradley’s of Cork, Greenman Dublin, Le Caveau Kilkenny

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Best Value Wines 2022 Under €18.00. With Reviews & Irish Stockists. 

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The late Stefano Bellotti, the producer, described this as a frank and direct wine. “It doesn’t pretend to be anything that it’s not. It doesn’t get you into any trouble. Pasta’s best friend!”

This red blend, of mostly Barbera (c 80%) and Dolcetto, is mid to dark ruby in colour. Ripe red fruits in the aromas, herbal notes as well, even a hint of undergrowth (someone here mentioned dirty boots!). Vibrant and friendly on the palate, tart fruit flavours prominent. Fresh and juicy too with a spicy dry (very dry!) finish. A simple country wine to enjoy with charcuterie and or cheese, or just as an aperitif. Very enjoyable indeed and Highly Recommended. The white Semplicemente  is terrific too.

Cascina degli Ulivi, according to the website, is a family winery established on a farm. Stefano Bellotti was the person who ran it until he died in 2018. He is considered one of the fathers of biodynamics in Italy. He started making natural wines in 1977 and cultivated his vineyards following biodynamic principles since 1984. His daughter Ilaria took over the reins from her father and seeks to preserve and transmit his legacy. 

They suggest pairing the red with Rice (with meat), Roasts and as Aperitif; serve at 16 degrees. Beef filled ravioli would be another good pairing as would the Rigatoni with Ragu Napoletano (with six-hour braised beef) that they serve in Cork’s Bella Napoli.

Ragu Napoletano at Cork's Bella Napoli

Le Caveau are strong on this one: “The first sniff I took brought me back over ten years to a month spent in Piemonte where this kind of unpretentious, simple, but utterly delicious wine was served as a foil to the hearty and rich food of the Langhe hills……Quirky, authentic and a real vino per gli amici. Would be great to share over a plate of charcuterie, cheese and good prosciutto."

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Top Wines 2022. With Reviews & Irish Stockists. 

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