Brine d’Aprile succeeded Il Gheppio in 2020. The latter was primarily based on an old planting of Cabernet Sauvignon vines, but—like many other regions, Emilia is not immune to the invasion of allochthonous insects—it fell victim to the American grapevine leafhopper, which wiped it out completely in just a few weeks.
Although this was regrettable due to the vine's undeniable quality, the loss was not too painful, as the Masini brothers had a contingency plan. Back in 2003, the brothers planted several rows of the excellent Malbo Gentile grape, a variety exclusively cultivated in Emilia-Romagna, on a hillside situated at an altitude of 150 to 230 meters. The vines were rooted in clay soils enriched with sand and chalk, atop a subsoil dominated by sandstone and gypsum. About 15 years later, these vines provided precisely the kind of grape material needed to produce a profound and full-bodied red wine. The substantial and tannin-rich Malbo Gentile is complemented by the elegant Marzemino (immortalized by Don Giovanni in Mozart’s opera: “Versa il vino. Eccelente Marzemino.”).
Together—and after 12 months in oak and acacia barrels—the two varieties combine to create a wine characterized by dark, juicy fruit, delicate exotic spices, and earthy notes. Despite its low alcohol content, it boasts remarkable depth.
Data Sheet
- Grape Variety: Malbo Gentile
- Vineyard: Located at 150-230 meters altitude, southeast-facing. Gravelly soils on a subsoil dominated by sandstone and gypsum
- Harvest: Hand-picked in 15 kg crates
- Fermentation: Spontaneous | wild yeasts, fermented on the skins
- Aging: Over one year in acacia barrels
- Filtration: None
- SO₂: Unsulfured
- Alcohol Content: 11% vol
- Closure: Natural cork
- Serving Temperature: 16–18°C
- Optimal Drinking Window: From now – 2030
- Content and Price per Liter: 0.75 l (€31.25/l)
All winemakers listed at Vinonudo work in their vineyards using compost, organic fertilizers, and natural preparations, avoiding herbicides, pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers.
