LAZIO RED AMPHORA
Indicazione Geografica Tipica
GRAPE VARIETY
Syrah
TASTING NOTES
Neroparadiso Lazio Rosso IGT Colle di Maggio 2022 is a single-varietal Syrah red wine (also known as Shiraz), vinified and aged in amphorae, elegantly showcasing Lazio's aptitude for international reds. It comes from the Velletri vineyards, just a few kilometers from Rome, in a Mediterranean climate tempered by cool hillside breezes—ideal for a fresh yet structured Lazio Rosso IGT 2022. The 2022 vintage proved balanced, with good day-night temperature swings fostering slow, harmonious ripening of the Syrah, yielding a full-bodied yet agile red where salinity, acidity, and fresh tannins blend into a compact, easy-drinking whole. Velletri's silty-clay soils with volcanic influences lend this Syrah a savory backbone and clean minerality, enhanced by amphora aging. Fermentation occurs in amphorae of three different materials—clinker, cocciopesto, and ceramic—with 12 months of aging in the same vessels, followed by 6 months in bottle, highlighting the grape's aromatic purity and fine tannins. In this Lazio setting, the Syrah develops good dark fruit concentration while retaining a thread of acidity for elegance and versatility, true to a modern, well-balanced amphora-aged red. To the eye, it shows a deep ruby red with a purple rim hinting at its youth and density. On the nose, prominent minerality pairs with cherry, dark berries, fresh red flowers, candied bitter orange, and touches of black pepper and cloves in a concentrated yet clean bouquet. On the palate, it's clean and elegant: fresh, finely polished tannins embrace lively acidity, supporting a sip rich in red fruit, bitter citrus, and spices, with excellent persistence and a long, savory finish. Colle di Maggio is a historic wine farm in Velletri, founded in the 1960s, that bottles Lazio through viticulture marked by amphorae, concrete, and fine woods. Neroparadiso is a project to express pure Syrah with a Mediterranean soul, aimed at those seeking a characterful yet approachable Lazio Rosso IGT 2022—perfect for newcomers to amphora-aged reds. Serve at 14–16°C after brief decanting alongside roasted red meats, baked lamb, grilled meats, and moderately aged cheeses, making it one of the most versatile options for Neroparadiso and Mediterranean-style Syrah pairings.
ORIGIN OF THE NAME
The name "Neroparadiso" stems from an intriguing oxymoron, representing a paradise that contrasts with the idea of peace and serenity traditionally associated with it. Inspired by Cabanel's work "The Fallen Angel," the name evokes Lucifer after his expulsion from paradise, symbolizing a captivating and mysterious darkness.