Introduction:
The 2023 Leonardo Bussoletti Brecciaro Ciliegiolo di Narni is a fresh, aromatic red wine that captures the essence of Umbria’s native Ciliegiolo grape. This wine is expressive and food-friendly, balancing vibrant red fruit with earthy undertones, and offers a pure, terroir-driven expression from one of Italy’s rising artisanal producers.

Terrior:
Sourced from hillside vineyards around Narni in southern Umbria, the soils are a mix of clay and limestone, promoting good drainage and mineral expression. The vineyard is organically farmed and hand-harvested, with a focus on low yields and maximum varietal purity. The region’s continental climate with cool nights enhances the grape’s aromatic profile and natural acidity.

Appearance:
Bright ruby-red in the glass with medium transparency and a youthful violet rim. Its clarity and colour indicate freshness, minimal intervention, and a focus on natural expression.

Nose:
Delicately perfumed with aromas of fresh red cherries, wild strawberries, and cranberry. Floral notes of rose petal and violet are joined by subtle herbal tones—fennel, wild thyme—and a touch of wet earth. The bouquet is lifted, pure, and inviting.

Palate:
Light to medium-bodied, the palate is energetic and clean. Juicy red fruits—sour cherry, pomegranate, and raspberry—lead the way, supported by brisk acidity and fine, sandy tannins. There's a gentle herbal streak and mineral tension beneath the fruit, giving the wine depth and a savory edge.

Finish:
The finish is refreshing and dry, with lingering cherry, crushed herbs, and a whisper of stony minerality. A touch of earthy complexity lingers on the tongue, rounding out this beautifully balanced wine.

Overall Impression:
The 2023 Brecciaro Ciliegiolo di Narni is a delightful, honest expression of Ciliegiolo, offering juicy brightness, floral charm, and a lightly rustic backbone. It’s ready to drink now but could evolve nicely over the next 2–4 years. A versatile choice for the table, it offers both regional identity and drinkability.

Recommended Food Pairings:
Meat Dish: Herb-crusted pork loin with cherry reduction or grilled lamb chops with rosemary.
Vegetarian Option: Eggplant Parmigiana or mushroom risotto with thyme and Parmigiano.
Cheese / Charcuterie Pairing: Young pecorino, fresh robiola, or taleggio with Norcia salami and black olive tapenade.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): ~13%
Farming Practices: Certified organic, hand-harvested, low-intervention winemaking
Producer Name: Leonardo Bussoletti
Old World / New World: Old World
Country of Origin: Italy
Region: Umbria – Narni IGT
Grape Varietals: Ciliegiolo (100%)
Vintage: 2023
Wine Style: Red, Light-to-Medium-bodied, Unoaked
Winemaking Techniques: Native yeast fermentation in stainless steel, minimal extraction, aged in steel to preserve freshness and varietal purity
Pack Size: 750 mL
Container Style: Standard wine bottle
Closure Style: Natural cork