Angelini, Pergola Rosso (Marche, Italy) 2011

Pergola Rosso is a virtually unknown, tiny, 100-acre DOC, in the Marche where the similarly unknown Vernaccia Rossa (a.k.a. Aleatico) grape reigns supreme. Perhaps its purported relationship to the Muscat family that explains it’s alluring floral rose petal-like aromas. Bright cherry-like fruit flavors follow. A seductive hint of bitterness in the finish adds intrigue. This lovely mid-weight wine is equally enjoyable after a half hour in the refrigerator because of its lack of tannins. I would have saved this review for warmer weather and recommended the wine as a stunning alternative to a rosé, but it is terrific now when the meal calls for a light red wine.