Winery: Tenuta di Castellaro Vigneron: Salvo Foti/ I Vigneri Name: Nero Ossidiana Varietal: 70% Corinto Nero, 30% Nero d’Avola originally from Greece, Corinto Nero was brought to the Aeolian Islands in the 6th century. It is very hardy, loves sandy soils and escaped phylloxera entirely so it is one of the few varietals that remains on it's own root stock. The majority of Corinto Nero here in Lipari is 100+ years old. Region: Lipari Island (Aeolian Islands) Lipari is one of the Aeolian islands located 24 miles off the northern coast of Sicily. Archeological digs have unearthed items that show this island was inhabited in 5,000 B.C. One can only imagine the history here. For more information about this amazing place, check out: https://www.enchantingitaly.com/regions/sicilia/messina/lipari.htm http://www.italyheaven.co.uk/sicily/aeolian-islands/lipari.html Soil & Climate: sandy, volcanic soil mild Mediterranean climate - very windy Vineyard/ Winemaking Info: alberello vines (old bush vines) high density planting (9000 plants per hectare) all handpicked gentle pressing of grapes in pneumatic press long maceration with skins & some whole cluster racked off the skins to inert barrel for natural malolactic fermentation 8 months then transferred to stainless steel 12-months in bottle unfined, unfiltered - only natural clarification Tasting Notes: deeply purple minerality and salinity reflect the terroir raspberry & red plums with underlying black pepper cherry & spice - very aromatic and fresh rich tannins balanced with bright acidity perfect with grilled meats & sausages AWESOME SUMMER RED!.