2021 Federico Mencaroni Lacrima di Morro d’Alba
Venture to the rolling hills of the Marche region, caught between the Apennine Mountains and the Adriatic Sea, and you
Producer
Federico Mencaroni
I have reviewed one wine from Federico Mencaroni: the 2021 Federico Mencaroni Lacrima di Morro d’Alba (90 points).
The Federico Mencaroni estate lies in Corinaldo, in the rolling hills of the Marche between the Apennines and the Adriatic. The family-run winery is now in its fourth generation: Federico took over from his uncle in 2009, combining modern precision with respect for the family’s agricultural heritage. The vineyards are planted on clay and limestone soils, in a microclimate where continental mountain air meets moderating coastal breezes.
While the Marche is famous for white Verdicchio, its great red secret is Lacrima, native to the tiny Morro d’Alba appellation. The grape takes its name, meaning “tear”, from its thin skin, which often weeps juice when fully ripe. Mencaroni ferments it entirely in stainless steel to preserve its astonishingly pure aromatics.
His Lacrima di Morro d’Alba pours deep ruby with violet reflections and delivers an intoxicating wave of blooming violets, wild strawberry and sweet spice. Smooth, fresh and free of heavy tannins, it is a floral red for charcuterie or a meat ragù.