# Ecoltura Spago (2023)

- **Producer:** Domaine Wines Sweden AB
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sangiovese, Merlot, Montepulciano
- **Region:** Southern Italy, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €23
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 18–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red plum, red cherry, black cherry, chocolate, vanilla, coffee

## About this wine

Ecoltura Spago is an Italian red wine produced by Domaine Wines Sweden AB, originating from Southern Italy. The wine's name, 'Spago,' references a traditional, manual method of securing the cork with string, a practice rarely seen today. The producer, Domaine Wines Sweden AB, is a Swedish wine importer established in 1998, known for its focus on quality, knowledge, and value, with a commitment to organic and sustainable wines. The 2023 vintage from Southern Italy is noted for its generosity and high yields. The wine has received notable international awards, including 'World's Best Wine in Box' in 2019.

## Interesting facts

- The name 'Spago' refers to a traditional, hand-tied string closure for the cork.
- Awarded 'World's Best Wine in Box' in 2019.
- Recognized with a gold award from Toulouse University experts for best wine in a box.
- Consistently praised for its value, often labeled a 'Fynd' (find/bargain).

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and firm tannins are well-suited to complement the protein and fat in richer meat dishes. Its fruitiness and subtle sweetness can balance savory and tomato-based sauces, while its structure can stand up to robust flavors.

## Wine making process

Ecoltura Spago is crafted from a blend of Sangiovese, Merlot, and Montepulciano grapes grown in Southern Italy. The winemaking process involves careful selection and hand-harvesting of grapes at their peak ripeness. A significant step is the long maceration period, lasting approximately three weeks, which is employed for both fermentation and skin contact to maximize flavor and color extraction. Following this, the wine is aged for six months on oak, with a combination of 30% barriques and 70% larger 10-hectoliter barrels, contributing to its structure and complexity.