Teroldego Sympatico

A little more on my Mondovino wine film fest companion, Cantina Rotaliana di Mezzolombardo Teroldego Rotaliano, 2003 ($10)

This tasty-fruity little number comes from the Trentino-Alto Adige region of northern Italy.  It's made from the native Italian grape, Teroldego, which is possible related to the Marzemino grape.  Marzemino is of mysterious origin - either from Austria or Greece.

The Skinny

• Deep ruby-indigo in color, semi-opaque; with a thin pinkish rim
• Pungent scents of blackberry and pepper, with a hint of tar (it reminded me a little of an Aussie Shiraz)
• Light weight in the mouth with fresh, crisp flavors of blackberry and raspberry.  Slight tannins and a simple finish

***.5 (3.5 stars out of 5)

I enjoyed this wine for two reasons:  1) It's simple & fruity - a fine casual wine; and 2) It's got some structure - meaning acidity balanced with acid and complimentary tannins.  Unlike other cheap reds, it actually does something in the mouth rather than lay there all heavy and flabby-like.

Try it with pizza, pasta, pork, or prosciutto!