Falesco / Cotarella - Ferentano, 2016
The first links between the Cotarella family and wine trace back to the 1960s, when Antonio and Domenico Cotarella built their first winery in Monterubiaglio (Umbria). A couple of decades later, in 1979, the brothers Renzo and Riccardo Cotarella officially founded the Falesco winery in Montefiascone (Northern Lazio).
The two brothers are deeply rooted into the wine world. Renzo is the CEO of the Antinori Group, while Riccardo is one of the most respected oenologists in Italy and President of the Union Internationale des Oenologues.
One of the main goals of the Cotarella family is to recover ancient clones, grape varieties and traditional vinification methods. Among their achievements in this direction, the Cotarellas started producing Ferentano in 1998, a wine made from 100% rossetto.
To produce Ferentano, the grapes are macerated at a cool temperature to enhance the varietal characteristics. After fermentation, the wine is matured in barrels for four months.
This white shows a bright gold hue in the glass, with medium intensity of colour. On the nose, it immediately reveals its generosity but still remains classy. Juicy notes of nectarine, yellow peach, lemon cake and traces of mango alternate with floral nuances of honeysuckle and yellow flowers. Subtle suggestions of hazelnuts reveal a sensible and perfectly integrated use of oak. A touch of whipped cream and butter invites the drinker to have a generous sip.
The palate is no less spectacular than the nose! Ferentano is full in body, with a creamy and dense texture that superbly complements the rich notes of stone fruit and waxy suggestions. A touch of acacia and dried herbs mingle with savoury fragrances. There’s something Burgundian here – a similar finesse and substance. It’s not as penetrating as a Montrachet, but it has considerable intensity anyway. Balanced acidity (medium+) with an elegant and satisfying finish. Another plus: I don’t know many other wines that are as good as the Ferentano at this price point!