2021 Passopisciaro Contrada Rampante

The 2021 Contrada Rampante (R) grumbles up from the glass, youthfully backward, dusty and dark with a core of dried black cherries and autumnal spice that comes forward with coaxing. This is far more lifted and feminine than expected. Tart red berry fruit and mineral tones add further tension. The 2021 finishes spicy, savory and nearly salty in character, with grippy tannins and a cranberry crunch that lingers on and on. Bury the Rampante deep in the cellar. It’s also worth noting that of the Passopisciaro Contrada 2021 wines, this is the lowest in alcohol at 14%.