Dal Maso 'Cicogna' Cabernet, Colli Berici DOC 2023
Red wine. A vibrant, fruit-forward expressions of the 'Cabernet' family, typically produced in a style that emphasizes regional terroir over heavy oak extraction. · Az. Agr. Dal Maso. A highly respected family-owned winery established in 1919. Currently managed by the fourth generation (Nicola, Silvia, and Anna), the producer is a leader in the Colli Berici region, known for elevating local indigenous grapes and crafting high-quality international varieties with a distinct Italian identity.
Vintage: 2023. A vintage marked by a variable growing season in Northern Italy. The early release cycle for this specific bottling suggests a focus on freshness and primary fruit character rather than long-term oak maceration, reflecting a year with vibrant acidity and approachable fruit.
Type
Red wine. A vibrant, fruit-forward expressions of the 'Cabernet' family, typically produced in a style that emphasizes regional terroir over heavy oak extraction.
Producer
Az. Agr. Dal Maso. A highly respected family-owned winery established in 1919. Currently managed by the fourth generation (Nicola, Silvia, and Anna), the producer is a leader in the Colli Berici region, known for elevating local indigenous grapes and crafting high-quality international varieties with a distinct Italian identity.
Country
Italy. A global powerhouse of viticulture featuring ancient traditions and the DOC/DOCG classification system. Italy is known for its immense biodiversity of grape varieties and varied microclimates ranging from the Alps to the Mediterranean coast.
Vintage
2023. A vintage marked by a variable growing season in Northern Italy. The early release cycle for this specific bottling suggests a focus on freshness and primary fruit character rather than long-term oak maceration, reflecting a year with vibrant acidity and approachable fruit.
Region & Appellation
Colli Berici DOC, Veneto. This appellation is located south of Vicenza and is characterized by its volcanic and limestone hills. While less famous than Valpolicella, it is a high-quality zone specifically renowned for its success with Cabernet and Tai Rosso grapes.
Grape Varieties
Cabernet (Sauvignon and/or Franc). In Colli Berici, 'Cabernet' on the label often denotes a blend of the two or a focus on Cabernet Sauvignon. These grapes thrive in the warm, well-drained soils of the Berici Hills, offering structure, herbaceous notes, and dark fruit.
Color & Appearance
Deep ruby red with violet reflections. The wine appears bright and youthful in the glass with medium-plus intensity and clear, well-defined legs indicating moderate alcohol and extract.
Aroma Profile
Intense and fresh. Primary aromas of black cherry, wild blackberry, and redcurrant, followed by characteristic varietal notes of bell pepper, tomato leaf, and a touch of dried herbs like oregano.
Tasting Notes
The palate is lively and agile. It opens with crunchy red and black berries, moving into a savory mid-palate with hints of graphite and forest floor. The finish is clean and persistent, marked by refreshing acidity that makes it highly drinkable.
Flavor Profile
Prominent flavors of blackcurrant and plum are layered with subtle earthy minerals. There is a light spicy undertone, though the fruit remains the dominant star during its youth.
Body & Texture
Medium-bodied with a smooth, supple texture. It lacks the 'weighty' or jammy mouthfeel of California Cabernets, instead offering a leaner, more elegant Italian structure.
Acidity & Tannins
High acidity provides a bright, refreshing frame. The tannins are medium in level, fine-grained, and youthful, offering enough grip for food without being overly astringent.
Sweetness Level
Dry. Classified as 'Secco' with minimal residual sugar, balanced perfectly by the wine's natural fruitiness and acidity.
Alcohol Content
Approximately 13% to 13.5% ABV. This is typical for the region, providing warmth and body without dominating the delicate aromatic profile.
Aging & Oak
Aged primarily in stainless steel or neutral large oak vats to preserve the 'Cicogna' vineyard's specific fruit character. The 2023 vintage is notably fresh, suggesting minimal new oak influence.
Food Pairings
Excellent with grilled white meats, classic Italian cold cuts (Soppressa Vicentina), medium-aged cheeses like Asiago, or pasta dishes with meat ragù. Its acidity also cuts through the fat of grilled sausages.
Serving Suggestions
Serve at 16-18°C (60-64°F) in a standard Bordeaux-style glass. Decanting for 20-30 minutes will help open up the primary fruit aromas given its youth.
Price Range
$15.00 - $22.00 USD. It represents excellent value for a boutique Italian red, sitting in the premium-entry level tier.
Quality Assessment
88-90 points. A high-quality, authentic expression of Veneto's volcanic hills. It is favored by critics for its balance and typicity rather than sheer power.
Production Methods
Manual harvest with careful berry selection. Temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel to maintain aromatic purity, followed by malolactic fermentation to soften the texture.
Terroir
The 'Cicogna' vineyard features clay and silt over limestone rock. The elevation and ventilation of the hills provide a significant diurnal temperature shift, which concentrates flavors while maintaining acidity.
History & Heritage
Dal Maso has been a pioneer in the Colli Berici for over a century. They were among the first to prove that international varieties like Cabernet could express unique territorial characteristics in the Berici hills.
Interesting Facts
The 'Cicogna' (Stork) line is named after the specific sub-zone/vineyard where the grapes are grown. The label features a stylized bird, reflecting the biodiversity and natural environment of the estate.
Cellaring Potential
Best enjoyed young (within 3-5 years) to appreciate its vibrant fruit. While it can age, it is designed for immediate pleasure and fresh consumption.
Similar Wines
Cabernet Franc from the Loire Valley (Chinon), Cabernet Sauvignon from Friuli-Venezia Giulia, or cool-climate South African Cabernet.