RARE GRAPE VARIETAL RESOURCE

History: We are in the Marche region, in the province of Ancona, where the small town of Morro d'Alba guards a little treasure, the native black grape variety Lacrima di Morro d'Alba. A grape so indissolubly linked to the territory that it even takes its name from it. The term "lacrima" (teardrop) derives from the peculiarity of the berries, which tend to break during ripening, releasing small drops of juice. Genetic research suggests its relationship with the Aleatico, an ancient semi-aromatic grape variety widespread especially in the central and southern regions of Italy.

The origins of Lacrima di Morro d'Alba are very ancient; it is said that it was even the favorite wine of Federico Barbarossa when, during the siege of Ancona, he took possession of the castle of Morro d'Alba. At that time, the grape variety was widespread in the Marche region, in Romagna, Tuscany, Umbria, Campania, and along the Adriatic coast as far as Puglia. But over the centuries, it has been progressively uprooted and replaced with other varieties. The risk of extinction was averted only thanks to the forward-thinking work of some winemakers in the province of Ancona, the original cradle of the grape variety. In 1985, the recognition of the DOC sanctioned its importance within the Italian ampelographic panorama, decreeing its rebirth and renewed interest. Today, the denomination includes territories of the municipalities of Morro d'Alba, Belvedere Ostrense, Monte San Vito, Ostra, San Marcello, and Senigallia, all in the province of Ancona.

Lacrima di Morro d'Alba is a very aromatic varietal, difficult to cultivate and sensitive to pests. These characteristics have certainly contributed to its progressive abandonment in favor of more resistant and productive varieties. It prefers hilly and well-ventilated exposures with clayey soils, rich in minerals. In the past, it was often cultivated according to the ancient custom of training the vine married to trees. A tradition that has now given way to more modern and rational training systems. Its clusters are of medium size; the berries have a dark blue color, with a thick skin but so delicate that it easily breaks during ripening, giving rise to the characteristic tearing. Source: https://www.gamberorossointernational.com/news/the-8-best-lacrima-di-morro-dalba-selected-by-gambero-rosso/)

VIVC: https://www.vivc.de/index.php?r=passport%2Fview&id=6618

Parentage: Aleatico & Nera Rada

Tasting notes: The wine has an intense red color with violet reflections. The olfactory profile is delicately aromatic, with youthful vinous hints that evolve towards a floral bouquet, with notes of violet and perfumes of small red fruits.

On the palate, it is fruity, harmonious, with soft tannins, persuasive, and good freshness. Precisely because of the characteristics of its aromas, it is preferred to refine it in steel, which preserves all the fragrance of the perfumes.

Food pairings: Lacrima di Morro d'Alba pairs very well with local cured meats, first courses with meat ragout, or second courses of white meats. Due to its delicacy and velvety tannins, it also pairs perfectly with the classic Anconetan fish stew.

Production areas: Lacrima di Morro d’Alba DOC

Producers: https://www.autoctovino.com/grape/lacrima-lacrima-di-morro-dalba/

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