Biferno Rosso Riserva (2011)

About this wine

This Biferno Rosso Riserva from Vinicola Tombacco is made from roughly 80 percent Montepulciano and 20 percent Aglianico, grown in the Biferno area of Molise. The wine shows an intense ruby color and opens with aromas of black cherry, plum, vanilla and notes of cinnamon and baking spice. On the palate it is full and round, with a velvety texture, moderate ripe tannins and a lively backbone of acidity that keeps the finish fresh. The oak influence comes from ageing partly in stainless steel and partly in 500 liter tonneaux for about 36 months, which adds the vanilla and gentle spice tones. The bottle typically reaches about 14 percent alcohol and offers a long, savory aftertaste with lingering dark fruit and subtle toasted notes.

About the grape

Montepulciano is the backbone of this Biferno blend, historically grown across central and southern Italy and used here for about 80 percent of the cuvee because of its ability to give color and mid palate structure, the grapes for Tombacco are cultivated on limestone and clay soils in the Campobasso area and often vinified with extended maceration before long ageing. Aglianico brings a distinct regional character to the wine at roughly 20 percent, it is an ancient southern Italian variety thought to have origins in Magna Graecia and is prized in Molise and neighboring regions for its firm tannins and good acidity, Tombacco uses Aglianico to add backbone and aging potential. In this bottling both varieties undergo malolactic fermentation and a prolonged maturation of about 36 months partly in stainless steel and partly in 500 liter tonneau, a practice that helps integrate the Montepulciano fruit and the Aglianico structure. Together the two grapes reflect the Biferno DOC rules which call for a Montepulciano dominated blend with a supporting portion of Aglianico, tying the wine to local viticultural tradition and soils.

Quick facts

• 🏞️ The wine is named after the local Biferno River, which shapes the Molise landscape and inspired the label story.
• 🍇 It is an unusual blend for Italy, combining 80% Montepulciano with 20% Aglianico for both plush fruit and age worthy structure.
• 🛢️ Tombacco ages this Riserva at least 36 months, part in stainless steel and part in 500 liter tonneaux, giving it a mix of freshness and soft oak influence.
• 👪 Cantina Tombacco is a multigenerational family business that dates back to the early 1900s and today still involves father and son in the cellar.
• 🏅 This label has picked up international recognition with medals at competitions and high scores from independent wine guides while remaining a very affordable Molise ambassador.

Palate profile

Producer

Vinicola Tombacco, established in 1919 by Giovanni Battista Tombacco in Trebaseleghe, Italy, began as a peach farm before transitioning to viticulture. Over the decades, the family expanded their vineyards across various Italian regions, emphasizing traditional winemaking methods and organic practices. Today, under the leadership of the third generation, the winery produces approximately 10 million bottles annually, with a significant portion being certified organic and vegan. Their commitment to sustainability includes the use of solar energy and efficient irrigation systems to minimize environmental impact.