Italian Winemakers Showcase Natural Wine Techniques in Lecce Tasting

A recent wine tasting event in Sandonaci, Italy, hosted at the organic farm of Natalino Del Prete, brought together sommeliers and wine enthusiasts to explore the unique methods of natural winemaking. The event featured wines from Princic, a renowned Italian producer, and highlighted a commitment to traditional, sustainable practices.

A Legacy of Natural Winemaking

The tasting was inspired by Natalino Del Prete, described as an intrepid inspirer of wandering wines, and his daughter Mina. Fabrizio Miccoli, deputy delegate of the Italian Sommelier Association of Lecce, commented on the event, stating, Thanks to Natalino Del Prete, intrepid inspirer of wandering wines who together with his daughter Mina shared with Ais Lecce, partner of the main event on natural wines scheduled for 2021, an inspiring journey to the knowledge of Collio wines through the Princic style, one of the most renowned Italian production companies, and not only, of macerated wines.

Exploring the Wines of Princic

The tasting featured four IGT Venezia Giulia wines: Red from ancient Merlot vineyards, a White blend of local vines, Pinot Grigio 2017 (with short maceration), and Ribolla (with prolonged maceration). Approximately fifty individuals from the catering, production, and enthusiast communities participated, experiencing wines described as gastronomic and pleasant.

The journey through these labels focused on understanding the impact of maceration and other techniques. A white wine blend of Chardonnay and Friulano was noted for its pleasant fruity and changing notes, while a red blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon offered fresh red fruit enriched with balsamic notes.

Unique Approaches to Pinot Grigio and Ribolla

The 2017 Pinot Grigio, with over 15 days of maceration and three years of maturation in wooden containers, presented an unusual orange color and olfactory notes of carcadè, citrus hints and potpourri. The Ribolla, also matured in wood for three years after a long maceration, was described as rich, with great personality and with a pleasant and dynamic mouth.

Expert Recognition

Dario Poddana of Les Caves De Pyrene, a UK-based expert with a catalog of around 4000 natural wines, praised Princic’s commitment to study and rigor in the vineyard and in the cellar, resulting in olfactory clean wines, with a strong flavour, persistent and rich in personality.

Miccoli concluded that the wines left their mark in terms of emotion and pleasantness.

FAQ

• Who is Natalino Del Prete? Natalino Del Prete is a winemaker considered a reference point for viticulture in Salento and Apulia, Italy.
• What is the focus of the wine tasting? The tasting focused on the natural winemaking techniques of Princic and Natalino Del Prete.
• What wines were featured at the tasting? The tasting included Red, White, Pinot Grigio 2017, and Ribolla wines from Princic.

Pro Tip: When exploring natural wines, pay attention to the maceration process, as it significantly impacts the wine’s flavor and aroma profile.

This event underscores the growing appreciation for natural winemaking and the dedication of Italian producers to sustainable and traditional practices.