Andrea Occhipinti Rosso Arcano 2022

Andrea Occhipinti is known for his unique wines crafted in the Lazio region of Italy, near Lake Bolsena. His passion for the rare grape varieties of this region was so intense that it became the focus of his master's thesis at the University of Tuscia. After completing his studies in 2004, Occhipinti embarked on a journey to revive some abandoned vine plots at an altitude of 450 meters, right off the shores of Europe's largest volcanic lake, Gradoli.

His vineyard, nestled in the Tuscia area of the Maremma region, which is about a 15-minute drive from the Tuscan border and an hour north of Rome, benefits from a unique microclimate thanks to Lake Bolsena. This setting allows Occhipinti to produce wines that are true expressions of the Lazio terroir. He works primarily with local varieties, Aleatico di Gradoli and Grechetto Rosso, focusing on traditional winemaking methods combined with a touch of innovation.

Occhipinti's dedication to organic viticulture is evident in his practices. He harvests manually and relies on ambient yeasts for fermentation, with minimal sulfite additions only at the bottling line. His wine range includes 'Alter Alea' Bianco, 'Alea Rosa' Rosato, 'Alea Viva' Rosso Aleatico, and Rosso Arcaico, all showcasing the purity of fruit, balance, and the distinctive characteristics of the Lazio region. His commitment to preserving indigenous varietals and organic farming results in wines that are not only delicious but also represent the essence of their origin.

Lazio, also known as Latium, is a central Italian wine region renowned for its ancient winemaking heritage, which dates back to Etruscan times. The area is predominantly recognized for its white wines, especially from grape varieties like Malvasia and Trebbiano, which are used to produce well-known wines such as Frascati and Est! Est!! Est!!! di Montefiascone. These wines are typically light, crisp, and meant to be consumed young.

The region's geography varies from volcanic hills to fertile plains, providing a diverse terroir that supports viticulture. The volcanic soils, in particular, enrich the wines with a complex mineral profile.

Despite its historical legacy, Lazio's wines have remained relatively obscure on the international market compared to other Italian regions. However, there is a growing interest in the region's red wines, including Cesanese, Sangiovese, and Montepulciano varieties. These reds are known for their depth and ability to age well.

Lazio also benefits from a Mediterranean climate influenced by the Tyrrhenian Sea, which moderates temperatures, allowing for a longer growing season.