Wines Unspecified Condé - Al Caleri - 2022

The Condé Cuvée Al Caleri 2022 is a red wine hailing from the renowned region of Emilia-Romagna in Italy. While the precise blend of grape varieties is not detailed, Emilia-Romagna reds are often expressive, with notable freshness and fruit-forward character. The producer, Condé, is known for carefully crafted wines that embrace both tradition and modernity. Given its 2022 vintage, you can expect a vibrant, youthful profile, likely showcasing a balance of ripe red fruit, gentle tannins and a lively acidity, making it both pleasurable on release and capable of subtle nuance. The vinification style for such reds often emphasises preserving fruit purity while achieving subtle complexity, possibly through a combination of stainless steel tanks and limited oak maturation.

Emilia-Romagna itself is a region of contrasts, stretching from the Apennine foothills to the fertile plains of the Po Valley. The soils vary greatly, ranging from clay-limestone in the hills to richer alluvial deposits nearer the rivers, providing a diverse palette for vine growing. The climate is predominantly temperate, with warm summers and cooling breezes that help to preserve acidity and aromatic freshness in the grapes. Traditionally, this region is famed for both its sparkling Lambrusco and still reds—styles that often offer generous fruit character, smooth mouthfeel and a touch of savoury earthiness. The region's rich gastronomic history is inextricably linked to its winemaking, with local wines crafted to complement the celebrated cuisine of Emilia-Romagna.

When considering food pairings, a red of this style from Emilia-Romagna would be a wonderful match for classic regional dishes such as tagliatelle al ragù, lasagne alla bolognese or prosciutto di Parma. Its freshness and medium weight also pair beautifully with grilled pork, mature cheese such as Parmigiano-Reggiano, or a simple platter of cured meats and rustic bread.

For optimal tasting, serve this wine slightly below room temperature, around 16-18°C. Open the bottle a short while before serving to allow the aromas to expand, and enjoy in a generous glass to fully appreciate its vibrant personality and the unique charm of Emilia-Romagna.