Malidea (2011)

About this wine

The 2013 Malidea from Iuli is a red wine made entirely from Nebbiolo grapes, offering a deep, rich profile. On the nose, it presents aromas of peppermint, fine toasts, bitter oranges, and fruit essences. The palate is greeted with fruity notes, a very tall structure, and medium intensity. This wine is known for its powerful character, with a nice balance between acidity and tannins. The name 'Malidea' translates to 'bad idea,' reflecting winemaker Fabrizio Iuli's unconventional choice to cultivate Nebbiolo in Monferrato, a region traditionally dominated by Barbera.

About the grape

Nebbiolo is a grape variety traditionally associated with the Langhe region in Italy, renowned for producing Barolo and Barbaresco wines. In the 2013 Iuli Malidea, winemaker Fabrizio Iuli explored cultivating Nebbiolo in the Monferrato area, a region typically dominated by Barbera grapes. This venture aimed to showcase Nebbiolo's adaptability and potential in different terroirs, resulting in a wine that reflects both the grape's classic characteristics and the unique qualities imparted by Monferrato's soil and climate.

Quick facts

• 😂 The name 'Malidea' translates to 'bad idea' in Italian, humorously reflecting winemaker Fabrizio Iuli's unconventional choice to cultivate Nebbiolo in Monferrato, a region traditionally known for Barbera.
• ⛰️ 'Malidea' is also the name of the hill separating Iuli's Nebbiolo and Barbera vineyards, adding a geographical significance to the wine's name.
• 🍇 The 2013 vintage of 'Malidea' is composed entirely of Nebbiolo grapes, showcasing the varietal's adaptability beyond its traditional areas like Barolo and Barbaresco.
• ⏳ Nebbiolo, the grape used in 'Malidea,' is known for its high acidity and tannins, contributing to the wine's potential for long-term aging and complex flavor development.
• 🍷 The 'Malidea' 2013 vintage was vinified in concrete tanks for 21 days, followed by 16 months in French oak barrels and an additional 6 months in bottle, enhancing its depth and complexity.

Palate profile

Producer

Iuli is a family-owned winery located in Montaldo di Cerrina, a small village in the Monferrato region of Piedmont, Italy. The estate spans approximately 43 hectares, with 14 hectares dedicated to vineyards, and has been in the Iuli family for four generations. The vineyards are cultivated organically, adhering to biodynamic principles, and have never been exposed to chemicals, creating a unique toxin-free environment. Winemaker Fabrizio Iuli, who refers to himself as a 'Barberista' due to his dedication to the Barbera grape, has also focused on reviving nearly extinct native varieties such as Slarina and Baratuciat. The wines are produced using natural yeasts, with no fining or filtering, and minimal sulfur dioxide, reflecting a commitment to low-intervention winemaking.