Ciu Ciu Gotico Piceno DOP Superiore

Ciu Ciu Gotico Piceno DOP Superiore is a red wine produced by the Ciu Ciu winery, located in the Marche region of central Italy. This wine falls under the Piceno DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata), a quality wine designation for wines produced in the southern part of Marche. Specifically, the Piceno DOP Superiore classification is for wines of higher quality, made from specific grape varieties with stricter production standards. Here’s an in-depth look at the Ciu Ciu Gotico Piceno DOP Superiore:

1. Grape Varieties

The Ciu Ciu Gotico Piceno DOP Superiore is typically made from a blend of indigenous red grape varieties, characteristic of the Piceno region. The primary grapes in this wine are:

• Montepulciano: Montepulciano is the dominant grape in this wine. It is one of Italy's most important red grape varieties, particularly in the central and southern regions. Montepulciano contributes rich, dark fruit flavors such as plum, cherry, and blackberry, along with tannins that offer structure and depth to the wine.
• Sangiovese: Another prominent grape in this wine is Sangiovese, which is widely grown in central Italy. Known for its bright acidity and red fruit flavors, Sangiovese adds freshness and vibrancy to the blend. It is often associated with flavors like red cherry, raspberry, and herbs, as well as its ability to age well.
• Other potential varieties: Depending on the vintage, there may be small contributions from other local or traditional red grape varieties that enhance the complexity and character of the wine.

2. Wine Production

• Winemaking Process: After hand-harvesting, the grapes are fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve their fruity and aromatic qualities. The wine typically undergoes maceration (the process of soaking the grape skins with the juice) to extract tannins, color, and flavor. After fermentation, the wine is aged in oak barrels (often French or Slavonian oak) for a period, which imparts subtle oak flavors and allows the wine to mature, gaining complexity and smoothness.
• Aging: As a DOP Superiore, this wine must be aged for a minimum period, typically at least 18 months, with some of that time in oak barrels. This aging process contributes to the wine’s roundness, while also developing aromas and flavors of vanilla, spice, and toasted notes.
• Alcohol Content: The typical alcohol content for this wine is around 13–14% ABV (Alcohol By Volume).

3. Flavor Profile

• Appearance: Deep ruby red with garnet highlights, which is characteristic of wines made from Montepulciano and Sangiovese.
• Aroma: The nose is intense and complex, with aromas of ripe red fruits (cherry, plum, blackberry) and dark fruits, alongside spicy notes of black pepper, tobacco, and herbs. Oak aging adds subtle layers of vanilla, chocolate, and toasted wood.
• Taste: On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, with a good structure and balance of tannins. The acidity from the Sangiovese provides freshness, while the tannins from the Montepulciano offer a firm backbone. Flavors of dark berries, dried fruit, and subtle spices are complemented by earthy undertones. The finish is long and harmonious, with lingering notes of fruit and oak.

4. Food Pairing

The bold and structured character of the Ciu Ciu Gotico Piceno DOP Superiore makes it an excellent companion to a variety of hearty dishes. Some ideal pairings include:

• Red Meats: Grilled steaks, roast beef, lamb, or pork dishes.
• Game: Venison, wild boar, or other game meats with rich flavors.
• Pasta: Rich pasta dishes like pappardelle with wild boar ragu or pasta with meat sauce.
• Aged Cheeses: Hard cheeses such as Pecorino, Parmigiano-Reggiano, or aged Gouda.
• Matured Meats: Charcuterie, cured meats, and salami.

5. Region and Terroir

• Marche Region: The Ciu Ciu Gotico Piceno DOP Superiore comes from the Marche region, specifically the Piceno area, which lies in the southern part of the region. The region is known for its hillsides, with vineyards planted at varying altitudes, benefiting from both Mediterranean and continental influences. The moderate climate, with hot summers and cool evenings, allows the grapes to ripen slowly, retaining their acidity and developing complex flavors.
• Piceno DOC: The Piceno DOC is one of the oldest wine designations in the Marche region, covering a large area that produces a range of red and white wines. The Superiore sub-designation indicates a wine that meets higher production standards, typically with stricter guidelines on aging and grape quality.

6. Winery Information

Ciu Ciu is a winery known for producing organic and sustainable wines from the Marche region. The winery’s philosophy focuses on crafting wines that express the unique terroir of the region, with an emphasis on traditional winemaking practices and respect for the environment. Ciu Ciu wines are typically crafted with minimal intervention to allow the natural characteristics of the grapes to shine through.

7. Serving Suggestions

• Serving Temperature: Best served at around 16–18°C (61–64°F), which helps to highlight the fruitiness and complexity of the wine.
• Storage: This wine has the potential to age well, improving over the next 5–10 years if stored in a cool, dark, and humid place.