Region: Abruzzo, Italy
Varietal: Malvasia
Tasting Notes: The 2023 Lunaria Malvasia Orange Pet Nat is a vibrant and intriguing sparkling wine from the Abruzzo region. This "Pet Nat" (Pétillant Naturel) is crafted in the traditional méthode ancestrale. It is bottled before fermentation completes, resulting in a naturally sparkling wine with a touch of funk and effervescence. The wine showcases a striking amber-orange hue, characteristic of skin-contact wines. Aromas of ripe stone fruits, dried apricots, and a hint of orange peel are prominent, with additional notes of honey and a subtle, earthy minerality. It delivers a refreshing and slightly tangy flavor profile on the palate, with flavors of citrus zest, orchard fruits, and a touch of honey. The mousse is fine and lively, leading to a clean, refreshing finish.
Pairing: This sunny, textured Pet Nat pairs beautifully with many dishes! Some ideas include serving this with bruschetta, stuffed mushrooms, flatbreads, zucchini fritters, Cacio e Pepe Frico, empanadas, and our current favorite: roasted butternut squash salad. The wine's natural effervescence and vibrant citrus notes complement the sweetness of the squash and the tangy goat cheese. The nutty and slightly sweet flavors from the candied pecans harmonize with the Pet Nat's fruit-forward profile, while the wine's slight earthiness and refreshing acidity balance the richness of the salad. This pairing enhances the dish and the wine.
Roasted Butternut Squash Salad with Goat Cheese and Candied Pecans
About: Cantina Orsogna, formed in 1964, is a cooperative company of 600 farmers committed to Organic & Biodynamic Farming and 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 to be safeguarded to prevent them from abandoning a tradition important for viticulture and biodiversity.
