2019 Alberto Motta Ansonica ($23)
Ansonica (an-so-NIC-ah) may not be a grape variety that you are familiar with. I was not. And, the wine region of Maremma Toscana in Italy may not be a region you are familiar with. But, both are quite interesting.
When researching the Ansonica grape, I learned that it is also known as Inzolia. Again, probably not a grape you are familiar with. As I learned, Ansonica is a white-wine grape that most likely originated in Sicily that likely found its way there from Greece. And, while it is mainly grown in Sicily, it now also appears in some Tuscan whites. But, it is most famous as one of the grape varieties used in the production of Marsala fortified wines.
This Alberto Motta Ansonica is deep gold in color with an extremely delicate aroma. On the palate, it has a richness to it as well as a faint nutty flavor along with light citrus notes and good acidity on the finish. Maybe the best way to describe this wine is somewhat like an un-oaked Chardonnay. But, of course, different.
This was an interesting little journey into an unfamiliar grape. And, an unfamiliar region. So, check out the Maremma Toscana region of Italy (a sub-region of Tuscany) and stay tuned for a couple more Behind the Cork™ blogs on red wines from this up and coming region. Cheers!
Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this sample at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Sample Provided by Francesco Mazzei, President of the ‘Consortium for the protection of Maremma Toscana Wines’ (via ZEDCOMM)