Antonella Lombardo, 'Autoritratto,' Mantonico, Calabria, Italy, 2023

Overview of the Wine
Our project is based on a clear and rigorous mission: starting from the recovery of the vines to revive the history of a territory. The farm covers about 7 hectares of vineyards, within an area historically suited to viticulture. The vines grown for the black berry varieties are Gaglioppo, Nerello Mascalese, Alicante, Calabrese Nero. The Greek of White and the Mantonic for the varieties with white berry.

The vineyards, the oldest raised in saplings and the most recent espaliers, are conducted in an organic regime in full respect of the small ecosystem in which they are located. The growth of the vine and its production are closely linked to the characteristics of the soil and its exposure, climate and agronomic practices. The main works, such as pruning, ploughing, hoeing, bindings and the various treatments based exclusively on copper and sulfur, are carried out consistently and strictly by hand.

96 POINTS - TEETH

Imported by Oliver McCrum, this is a dense, chissled white with amazing character.  

Winemaker
Antonella Lombardo

Grape / Blend
100% Mantonico

FYI - Origin & History: Mantonico is believed to have been brought to southern Italy by ancient Greek colonists in the 7th century BC. Its name derives from the Greek word mantonikos, meaning prophet or soothsayer, because the wine it produced was historically used by priests in ancient ceremonies for divination (by wine searcher)

Origin
Calabria, Italy

Winemaker's Tasting Notes
Wine with a straw yellow tending to golden, with the scent and aromas of fresh white flowers, tropical fruit, citrusy scents and herbaceous notes. At the sip consistent continuity with the olfactory sensations, enveloping, savory, with an iodized, deep, and long finish. Excellent to accompany raw fish, first courses based on shellfish, mushroom risotto, white meats, medium-aged cheeses and oriental cuisine.

Serving temperature: 12-14°C

96 Points - Ian Blackburn

If your going to find out about Mantonico - this is the wine to find.  Pronounced body of this wine makes it distinctive and exciting.  Boldly structured, complex nose of floral, citrus, and undeniable minerality.  Color 15, Aroma 24, Body 24 and Overall 33.  96 points - a wow wine.   Very Limited.