Cà del Magro Custoza Superiore Monte del Fra Veneto 2020

Description

Monte del Frà (meaning 'land of the monks') gets its name from the late 15th century, when a group of Friars formed a monastery on the land. Some hundred years later, the friars leased 25 hectares for the cultivation of vineyards and fruit trees. You can, in fact, still see this document today in the Vienna's historic library.They produce very good-quality wines which are clean, display excellent purity of fruit and are elegant and well balanced.

Fast forward several centuries, and Monte del Frà is now in the very capable hands of the Bonomo family. For over six decades the family have farmed this land, now resting firmly with the third generation; Marica, Silvia and Massimo Bonuomo. In tandem with their growing connection to the land, the family has worked increasingly towards sustainable agriculture. And what a location for that endeavour; bordering the Venetian prealps to the North and Lake Garda to the West, this is nothing short of picturesque. The mountains mitigate the cold wines from Northern Europe and the vast lake mitigates both cold winters and hot summers. Moronic hills - formed by prehistoric glaciers - make this area particularly favourable for a plethora of local grape varieties, selected carefully for each wine.

Day bright yellow. Medium intensity with floral, fruity, spices aromas such as white flowers, tea leaves, apple, pear, citrus, peach, apricot, tropical fruit and ginger. Lovely, dried fruit sensations with wet stones and honey. Dry, with medium acidity, and intensity. The flavors remain true to the nose with a charming touch of olive oil sensations. Long finish. Drink it now and it has potential of ageing for 5+ years. Outstanding.

Flowers and citrus, a white-nut creaminess. White pepper. Linden and honey. There is so much on the nose, I almost forgot to taste it. But here is another Monte del Frà wine that buzzes the mouth with its vivacious vibrato energy and acidity, and yets glides into the finish, soft and seamlessly smooth. Mimosa, linden blossom, crunchy green-skinned apples but also the softness of white pears and a touch of golden spice. Bay leaf and a very very slight hint of orange-flower honey. I can taste the wet white stones of the 2021 Custoza, but here it's stronger on the finish than in the mid point of the wine. Long with hidden power lingering beneath beguiling accessibility Underpriced. Jancis Robinson.com.