Cavit Alta Luna Phases Red – Over The Moon

40% Teroldego, 30% Lagrein and 30% Merlot from Vigneti delle Dolomiti, Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy.

The wine has an SRP of $14 and is available for as low as $8. Imported by Palm Bay International. 7,500 cases produced.

From the bottle:

“Alta Luna (“High Moon”) represents the finest selection of grapes from prime vineyard sites in the foothills of the breathtaking Dolomite Alps. This elegant yet robust fusion of Merlot and indigenous varieties Lagrein and Teroldego combines flavor of blackberries, dark cherry and plum with distinctive spicy notes. Aged in oak barrels for 12 months, this exciting red is smooth and beautifully balanced, with fine tannins and a lingering finish.

13% Alcohol”

Here at The Reverse Wine Snob we’re big fans of exploring new wine varieties. Teroldego andLagrein are two that we’ve encouraged people to check out in the past, the problem is that they can be hard to find for under $20 — or even at all.

The 2009 Cavit Alta Luna Phases begins with a lovely aroma of really ripe dark fruit (blackberry, plum and mulberry primarily) along with some excellent cinnamon and other spice notes. The wine tastes super smooth with loads of fantastic rich dark fruit, lots more spice, good balance and just a ton of flavor. Hints of coffee and vanilla blend in seamlessly. It ends dry and long with smooth, soft tannins. A fantastic wine we’ll think you’ll be over the moon about and also a great introduction to the fabulous red wines of Alto Adige.