From: Abruzzo, Italy
Varietal: Montepulciano
Tasting Notes: The 2018 Lunaria Coste di Moro Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is a striking example of this robust and versatile Italian varietal. This vintage exhibits a deep ruby red color with enticing aromas of ripe black cherry, plums, and a hint of cocoa and toasting. On the palate, it reveals a silky rich profile with flavors of red fruit, black cherry jam, mocha, and traces of almond. The tannins are well-structured yet smooth, and the wine's balanced acidity leads to a long, satisfying finish. This Montepulciano d'Abruzzo reflects the region's traditional character and modern finesse.
Pairing: This Montepulciano d'Abruzzo pairs beautifully with these balsamic-glazed beef short ribs. The wine's rich, intense flavors complement the beef's deep, savory notes and the balsamic glaze's tangy sweetness. The wine’s tannins cut through the meat’s richness, while its dark fruit flavors enhance its complexity, creating a harmonious and indulgent pairing. Some other everyday pairings include serving this alongside takeout chicken or beef teriyaki, kalbi plate lunches, pulled pork sandwiches with BBQ sauce, glazed rib ends, and homemade smash burgers straight off the grill.
Balsamic-Glazed Beef Short Ribs
About. Cantina Orsogna, formed in 1964, is a cooperative company of 600 farmers committed to Organic & Biodynamic Farming as well as conservation of Majella National Park. Lunaria wines are certified as organic, biodynamic, and vegan.
The story of Lunaria began in 2003 when some winemaker members of the Cantina Sociale di Orsogna, already organic, embraced the idea promoted by the cooperative of managing the vineyards according to the principles of biodynamic agriculture, sharing the importance of safeguarding the territory, its biodiversity, and agricultural experiences and traditions.
Winemakers, especially biodynamic ones, are fundamental figures for the territory, and it is necessary to safeguard them from abandoning a tradition so important for viticulture and biodiversity.
Biodynamic farming, with its deep connection to nature and respect for its rhythms, not only promotes soil fertility and vitality but also produces fruits that are significantly richer in nutrients, thanks to the close connection between man and the environment.
The biodynamic farmer is a heritage to be protected and safeguarded; society must recognize his central role in maintaining environmental balances, producing fruits of high qualitative value, and promoting life and biodiversity. The dictates and philosophies of biodynamics are not dogmatic or religious precepts but orientations to which the farmer must tend: the naturalness of agricultural management, the rejection of chemicals, the reduction of the use of mechanical means, and the maintenance of soil fertility.
