We came across this unusual grape from the northeast region of Italy (primarily from the area around Isera in Trentino) when we were sourcing an Italian red that would match well with fish. Marzemino wines are made in limited quantities, and are hard to find in the US. The grapes have a long growing season, ripening late and is susceptible to many grape diseases, making it a bit finicky to grow.
Our friends at the Italian Wine Merchant had told us about the wines from the region, and suggested the Pratello Marzemino Poderi Ogaria. We bought a case of the 2006 for our annual Feast of the Fishes party, and went through most of it – we immediately went back for another case. Surprisingly, this wine has held up well in our cellar, showing outstanding fresh tastes of blueberry, lingonberry, and sweet herbs that has a surprising long lasting flavor. It is light to medium bodied, with soft tannins and high acidity. We recently opened up a few bottles of the 2006 for a pizza party we held, and it was a big hit. We found only five bottles of the 2010 from the Virginia Wine Experience – so beware, it is hard to find.
