Lunaria Bucefalo Rosso 2023
A bold, generous Abruzzo red with ripe dark fruit, supple structure, and a savoury, earthy edge. Smooth, warming, and highly food-friendly.
This biodynamic red wine is produced by Cantina Orsogna under their Lunaria label. Crafted from Montepulciano grapes using the traditional appassimento method, where grapes are partially dried before fermentation to intensify flavour and texture.
The palate opens with generous blackberry, black cherry, and ripe plum, layered with hints of bramble and dark berry compote. Subtle spice notes of black pepper, clove, and Mediterranean herbs add complexity, while gentle oak nuances of vanilla and toasted cedar provide elegance. The finish is smooth and persistent, with lingering fruit and spice.
Certified organic, biodynamic (Demeter), and vegan-friendly, Bucefalo is a soulful, sustainably made wine that pairs beautifully with grilled red meats, game, or even dark chocolate desserts.
Italy
Abruzzo
Montepulciano
750ml
14.50%
2023Lunaria Bucefalo Rosso comes from Abruzzo, a mountainous and windswept region on Italy’s Adriatic coast, celebrated for producing deeply flavoured reds that combine richness with natural freshness. With cooling influences from the Apennines and Adriatic breezes, Abruzzo is well suited to wines that show both fruit depth and balance, often with an appealing rustic charm refined by modern winemaking.
This wine is made from Montepulciano, Abruzzo’s signature red grape (distinct from Vino Nobile di Montepulciano in Tuscany). Montepulciano is prized for its ability to deliver concentrated black cherry and plum character, supple tannins, and a gentle savoury tone that can lean towards spice, dried herbs, and earthy notes as the wine opens.
Crafted by Lunaria, a producer associated with the cooperative tradition of the region, Bucefalo Rosso is intended to express Montepulciano’s naturally generous profile while keeping the style polished and approachable. The winemaking focuses on healthy, ripe fruit and careful extraction to build texture and depth, resulting in a red that is rich but not heavy, with smooth tannins and a satisfying finish.
A dry, medium- to full-bodied red with generous fruit concentration, rounded tannins, and balanced acidity. The style is plush and expressive, offering depth and warmth while remaining easy to enjoy.
- Appearance: Deep ruby with purple highlights and strong colour intensity.
- Nose: Black cherry, blackberry, and plum with hints of dried herbs, pepper, and a subtle earthy undertone.
- Palate: Ripe dark fruit layered with savoury spice and a faint cocoa-like richness.
- Texture: Rounded, supple tannins with balanced acidity giving lift and drinkability.
- Finish: Smooth and warming, lingering on dark fruit and savoury notes.
- Overall Impression: A confidently styled Montepulciano from Abruzzo - rich, smooth, and deeply food-friendly, with a polished feel and authentic regional character.
- Arrosticini (Abruzzese Lamb Skewers) – A natural match: savoury lamb and gentle char echo the wine’s depth and spice.
- Beef Ragu or Lasagne – Rich, slow-cooked flavours pair beautifully with Montepulciano’s fruit weight and smooth tannins.
- Sausage & Peppers – Peppery, smoky notes align with the wine’s savoury edge and dark fruit core.
- Tomato-Based Pasta (Amatriciana or Sugo) – Balanced acidity handles tomato brightness while the wine’s richness complements savoury depth.
- Pecorino Abruzzese or Aged Hard Cheeses – Salty, nutty flavours lift the fruit and soften the tannins
- Serve at 16–18°C for the best balance of fruit expression and savoury nuance.
- A decant of 20–40 minutes is recommended to open aromatics and smooth the structure. Use a medium- to large-bowl red wine glass to maximise aeration and showcase the wine’s breadth.
- Use a medium- to large-bowl red wine glass to maximise aeration and showcase the wine’s breadth.
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