Violone from Tuscia DOC, Lazio, Italy; medium plus to full bodied, inky, deep, and dry with notes of blackberry, dried blueberry, black plum, dark chocolate, and earth, with medium acidity and dry, angular tannins. Organic and Biodynamic with regenerative farming practices

Unfiltered Wine Club, March 2026, vintage 2022

"Our final Ephemeral wine (and second Ciucci wine) is made from the Violone variety, which is similar genetically to Montepulciano, however significantly lesser known. “Violo’” is a dark, deep, and inky red made from grapes that were grown in the volcanic soils of the Tuscia DOC in Lazio, Italy. The Ciucci family has been running this winery and farming their vineyards since 1910, and have always been passionate about soil health and the longevity of their land (I touched on their farming practices earlier with the Vermentino). Medium-plus to full in body, this wine leans into its darker side right away with notes of blackberry, dried blueberry, and black plum, followed by layers of violets, dark chocolate, and earth. The tannins are dry and angular, and when coupled with the balanced acidity, provide great food pairing versatility. All the black-skinned fruit aromas make me immediately think of lamb or beef stews, but it will also go well with mushroom ragù over pasta, roasted root vegetables with black rice and herbs, or a juicy, Tuesday night burger. It will also pair beautifully with aged cheeses or anything that leans savory and rustic. This is a another bottle that enjoys air, so consider opening it and leaving the cork out of the bottle for a half hour before you pour a glass."