2014 Manicor 2014 Reserve del Conte

Price: $24
Region: Alto Adige < Italy 
Grapes: Lagrein, Merlot and Cabernet
Vineyard/Cellar Stats: Biodynamic farming; sand, clay and limestone soils; 500m elevation, fermented/aged in a combo of large wood vats, cement and some stainless; low added SO2
Winemaker: Count Michael Goëss-Enzenberg

From a 400-year old estate in the mountainous Alto Adige (Italy’s very far northern region bordering Austria and Switzerland), which the Goëss-Enzenberg family took over 15 years ago and converted to biodynamic farming. This is truly one of the classic estates of northern Italy, with a rich, lengthy history (since 1608!) and run by a real Count and Countess.  They are certified Biodynamic and are working towards complete self-sufficiency, going so far as to age wood from their own forests for wine barrels and exploit geothermal energy for heating and other energy needs. For this wine, Manincor’s flagship red, grapes from two pristine sites are picked and crushed separately; long skin contact with daily punch downs give plenty of extraction, color and tannins to the wine, giving it satisfying richness, depth and complexity. You get hints of flowers, mountain berries and subtle earthiness, along with some pepper, cedar and crushed stones. Polished, classic and maybe a bit regal. For the refined palate on your list.