What kind of wine is Lazio Rosso IGT "Ogrà" 2018 - Famiglia Cotarella

The Lazio Rosso IGT "Ogrà" 2018 - Famiglia Cotarella is a red wine with an elegant and modern soul, the result of the Cotarella Family's vast experience in cultivating the Syrah grape variety. It originates in the heart of Upper Lazio, in the municipality of Castiglione in Teverina, where the volcanic soil and balanced microclimate favor grapes of extraordinary ripeness and aromatic intensity. The result is a full-bodied, harmonious, and highly enjoyable wine that authentically tells the story of the connection between terroir and winemaking expertise.

Vintage Details

The 2018 vintage stands out for its regular climatic trend, with ideal temperature swings to enhance aromas and color. The Syrah harvest took place in the first half of September, when the grapes had reached perfect ripeness in sugars and polyphenols. This balance between power and freshness has given rise to a wine capable of expressing finesse and depth even in its early years of aging.

Vinification and aging

The fermentation of Lazio Rosso IGT "Ogrà" 2018 - Famiglia Cotarella takes place in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature, to best preserve the varietal aromas of Syrah. This is followed by maceration on the skins (i.e., the contact of the must with the solid particles of the grape) to extract color and soft tannins. Aging lasts for approximately 18 months in French oak barriques, during which the wine acquires aromatic complexity and roundness on the palate. After bottling, it is further rested in glass to achieve full harmony before distribution.

Tasting Notes

"Ogrà" 2018 is a red wine that captivates with its sensory depth and the balance between power and finesse.

Color

Visually, it presents an intense and deep ruby red, tending towards garnet with evolution. The brilliance of the color anticipates its structure and decisive personality.

Nose

The bouquet is rich and enveloping: notes of ripe red fruits, plum, and blackberry emerge, accompanied by balsamic nuances, sweet spices, and a slight toastiness derived from its time in wood. With aeration, more complex hints of cocoa and vanilla unfold.

Taste

On the palate, it is full-bodied and well-balanced. The tannin (the substance that provides astringency and structure) is silky and well-integrated, while the persistence is long, with echoes of dark fruit and spices. A wine capable of combining softness and character, perfect for those seeking a complete and engaging experience.

What dishes to pair with Lazio Rosso IGT “Ogrà” 2018 - Famiglia Cotarella

This Lazio Syrah is best paired with rich and flavorful dishes. It is ideal with main courses of meat and aged cheeses, but can also surprise in less formal settings. Some recommended pairings:

• Grilled red meats or braised dishes
• Game, such as hare or wild boar
• Lasagna and pasta with ragu sauce
• Aged cheeses and local pecorino cheeses

Also perfect for accompanying a convivial dinner, where one wants to offer a wine with an intense yet accessible profile.

Storage and aging: how to store Lazio Rosso IGT “Ogrà” 2018 - Famiglia Cotarella wine

To best preserve the qualities of Lazio Rosso IGT "Ogrà" 2018 - Famiglia Cotarella, it is advisable to keep it in a dark environment, with a constant temperature between 14°C and 16°C and moderate humidity. The bottle should be stored horizontally, to keep the cork moist.

"Ogrà" is a wine with excellent aging potential: it can be stored in the cellar for 8-10 years, during which it will develop increasingly complex tertiary notes, gaining softness and depth. A red wine to uncork today to enjoy its vivacity, or to let mature to discover, over time, its most elegant and mature soul.