Wines Unspecified Ondaia - 2023

Viniou Reviews

Ondaia 2023 is a red wine from the beautiful region of Tuscany, Italy, and although the specific appellation and subregion are not detailed, this lends it an intrigue typical of many contemporary Tuscan wines. The 2023 vintage reflects a youthful vibrancy, and given Tuscany’s tradition, it is most likely crafted primarily from Sangiovese—a grape renowned for its bright acidity and crisp red fruit profile, though other indigenous varieties could play a part. Winemaking in Tuscany, especially for dry reds, often involves a period of maturation in stainless steel or traditional casks, enhancing the wine’s structure while retaining freshness and the expression of the terroir.

Tuscany remains one of Italy’s viticultural gems, characterised by rolling hills, a warm Mediterranean climate, and a remarkable diversity of soils including galestro, clay, and marl. This combination offers ideal growing conditions for red varieties, most notably Sangiovese, which thrives here. Not just famous for iconic appellations like Chianti or Brunello di Montalcino, the region has fostered a rich history of winemaking since the Etruscan era, contributing to a vibrant local food culture and a global reputation for elegant, food-friendly reds.

A dry Tuscan red like Ondaia 2023 pairs beautifully with traditional dishes of the region, such as bistecca alla fiorentina—a juicy grilled T-bone steak. Its acid backbone also flatters tomato-based pasta dishes like pappardelle al ragù or a hearty ribollita. If you’d like to venture further afield, consider lamb cutlets, grilled vegetables, or hard cheeses such as pecorino toscano. The wine's freshness and structure ensure it is versatile enough to complement both rustic fare and refined Italian cuisine.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this red at a temperature between 16-18°C. Younger Tuscan reds such as this will benefit from a brief aeration, so decanting for half an hour before serving can help reveal their aromatic complexity and soften the tannins, providing a rewarding tasting experience.