What kind of wine is Lazio IGT “Sodale” 2022 - Famiglia Cotarella

Lazio IGT “Sodale” 2022 - Famiglia Cotarella is an elegant and contemporary red wine, made from 100% Merlot grapes, cultivated on hills at about 300 meters above sea level, in the heart of Lazio. The IGT (Indicazione Geografica Tipica) denomination guarantees an authentic link with the territory, while the expert hand of the Famiglia Cotarella transforms this international grape variety into a warm, intense, and profoundly Mediterranean expression.

With a soft yet structured character, “Sodale” 2022 is a wine designed for those who want to discover a red with personality, capable of combining immediacy and complexity. Perfect for accompanying convivial moments or for savoring slowly, throughout its aromatic evolution.

Vintage details

The 2022 vintage in Lazio was characterized by a balanced climate, with a warm season regulated by good temperature excursions between day and night. The Merlot grapes achieved optimal ripeness, with an excellent balance between sugars and acidity. The result is a wine with a rich aromatic profile, with ripe tannins and a freshness that invites the next sip.

Winemaking and aging

The winemaking of Lazio IGT “Sodale” 2022 - Famiglia Cotarella follows a careful approach that respects the raw material. After fermentation in steel tanks at a controlled temperature, necessary to preserve the purity of the fruit, the wine macerates for a few days on the skins, extracting color and structure harmoniously. Subsequently, it ages for at least 9 months in wooden barrels of various origins and toast levels: a step that imparts greater complexity and spicy notes, without masking the varietal character of the Merlot.

Tasting Notes

Lazio IGT “Sodale” 2022 - Famiglia Cotarella is a red with an enveloping and versatile personality. Let's analyze its distinctive features together.

Color

It presents a deep and brilliant ruby red, with purplish reflections that attest to its youth and energy. A dense but luminous color, a sign of good fruit concentration.

Nose

On the nose, it opens with intense aromas of ripe red fruits – cherry, blackberry, and plum – accompanied by elegant notes of sweet spices and subtle woody undertones. Hints of vanilla and cocoa also emerge, derived from the aging in wood, perfectly integrated into the bouquet.

Taste

On the palate, “Sodale” 2022 offers a full and velvety structure. The tannins (the substances that give the typical dry sensation) are soft and well-integrated, while the aromatic persistence is long, with echoes of fruit and spices. The balance between warmth and freshness makes it a highly enjoyable wine, capable of captivating even less experienced palates.

What to pair with Lazio IGT “Sodale” 2022 - Famiglia Cotarella

Versatile and full of charm, Lazio IGT “Sodale” 2022 - Famiglia Cotarella pairs perfectly with savory dishes of Italian tradition. It is ideal for:

• Meat main courses such as roasts, braised meats, or mixed grills
• Pasta with rich ragù or game sauces
• Aged or blue cheeses
• A platter of artisanal cured meats for a simple but highly satisfying pairing

It is also an excellent wine to share during an informal dinner, thanks to its balance between elegance and drinkability.

Storage and aging: how to store Lazio IGT “Sodale” 2022 - Famiglia Cotarella wine

To preserve the qualities of Lazio IGT “Sodale” 2022 - Famiglia Cotarella, it is recommended to store it in a cool place, away from direct light, with a constant temperature between 12 and 16°C and controlled humidity. The bottle should be kept in a horizontal position, so that the cork remains moist and does not lose its seal.

Although ready to drink, this wine can evolve in the bottle for 5-7 years, developing more complex and softer nuances. It is therefore a suitable choice for those who want to enjoy it immediately, as well as for those who like to discover the evolution of a great Lazio Merlot over time.