August 22, 2023
20-Buck Bottle: Organic Italian white compliments summer foods
This co-op produces biodynamic wines in Abruzzo, Italy
by Anita Skogland
Lunaria Civitas Terre di Chieti IGP Pecorino 2021, Abruzzo, Italy
Available at: Vintners Market at The Arboretum
Price: $17.99
On The Nose: Crisp, dry peach notes with fresh basil and white flowers
On The Palate: Stone fruit, medium body, medium acidity
On The Plate: Pair with tomato and cucumber salad, tomato sandwiches, trout, cod, grilled chicken, quiche, fruit salads
Our Take: A good value wine with balanced mineral notes and very food flexible.
Fun Fact: The grape in this wine is pecorino. Yes, the same spelling as pecorino cheese, which is made from sheep milk. The sheep that graze in this area of Italy apparently snatch grapes off the vines when they are moving through the vineyards to new grazing areas. There is a limited amount of white wine produced in Abruzzo, and they are often produced from lesser known grapes. They are usually well made, good quality, and reasonably priced. Cantina Orsogna is a co-op of 600 farmers who are certified organic and biodynamic. This co-op is where Lunaria produces its wines. A portion of their profits go to protecting nearby Majella National Park, one of Europe’s most natural preserved parks.