Le Caveau - Iugum - October 8th, 2011

Le Caveau - Iugum - October 8th, 2011
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2001 Peter Dipoli “Iugum” Alto Adige DOC $24.99
(the only other retailer on the internet selling this wine has it at $48)
70% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon
The Merlot is harvested from mid-September, Cabernet Sauvignon from mid-October and then each grape variety is vinified separately. Both the Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon undergo malolactic fermentation in new barriques. The Cabernet Sauvignon is then aged in new barriques, while the Merlot is aged in second and third-use barriques both for 12 months, after which the wines are blended to make Iugum . After 60 days in stainsteel vats, Iugum is bottled and then released after 24 months in the bottle. Annual production of this wine is only 6,500 bottles.

This vineyard parcel is located on the slope of Magré one of the warmest vineyard areas of Alto Adige. The warm temperature and the soil structure with high clay content determined the selection of Bordeaux varieties to be planted in the vineyard. The objective with Iugum was to produce a great red wine which could be barrel aged and withstand long bottle ageing. Iugum (iou-gum) means “yoke” in Latin and is also used in very early agricultural texts in reference to vines being trained on a support. "
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Random Learning Whilst Tasting:
The 5 Bordeaux Grapes Are:
1) Cabernet Sauvignon
2) Merlot
3) Cabernet Franc
4) Petite Verdot
5) Malbec