# Fidelio (2020)

- **Producer:** Valle delle Lepri
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sangiovese
- **Region:** Emilia-Romagna, Italy
- **Style:** Natural
- **Average price:** €11
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Aromas & flavours:** red plum, red cherry

## About this wine

Fidelio 2020 is a Romagna Sangiovese Superiore DOC from Valle delle Lepri, an organic winery located in Coriano, Rimini, Italy. The winery prioritizes nature and sustainability, with a portion of its 6 hectares of vineyards dedicated to hare repopulation. They employ organic farming practices, using only sulfur and copper for vine treatments and avoiding synthetic pesticides. Pruning and harvesting are done by hand, and they utilize green manure with self-produced compost and biodynamic preparations. The wine's name, 'Fidelio,' is inspired by Beethoven's opera, reflecting a dedication to artistry in winemaking. The vineyard, Vigna Grande, was planted in 2004 and is situated at an altitude of 60-90 meters.

## Interesting facts

- Vineyard named 'Vigna Grande' planted in 2004.
- Winery dedicates land to hare repopulation.
- Uses only sulfur and copper for vine treatments.
- Name 'Fidelio' inspired by Beethoven's opera.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium body and persistent palate suggest it can stand up to richer dishes. Its fruit notes can complement roasted meats, while its structure can balance the richness of sauces and cheeses.

## Wine making process

Fidelio 2020 undergoes spontaneous fermentation in steel tanks, followed by a maceration period of 15-20 days on the skins. The wine is then aged on its lees in semi-exhausted 500-liter French oak barrels. It is bottled unfiltered and unfined, with a modest addition of sulfites. The winery employs certified organic farming practices, including hand pruning and harvesting, green manure, and the use of biodynamic preparations. Treatments on the vines are limited to sulfur and copper.