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This was a tough one to call – funky and unique. Not for everyone, that’s for sure. But also something that’s off the beaten path, from a region – Puglia, and a grape – Nero di Troia, that one doesn’t typically find on the bargain shelves.
Here’s my experience with Rivera Il Falcone Castel del Monte Riserva 2008, quickly summarized: I initially tried a couple ounces at a wine tasting, and my first thought was that it was weird and wild. It featured that brambly herbal flavor some call macchia (or garrigue in France) that’s typical for this area of the world, plus tobacco, and fading cherry fruit.
But the thing about these mass tastings, where you’re drinking wine after wine that is essentially the same, is that unique really stands out. I couldn’t help but wonder if this would hold up to a full bottle, over the course of a night. Would the oddness grate on me, after a full glass or two?
For $18, I figured it was worth a shot to find out. After decanting, the wine did open some: the sour cherry fruit became fuller, and overall it was more balanced. In the end, I’m glad I went for the full bottle, and enjoyed it to the end.
Will I buy more? Dunno. It’s still somewhat odd, and doesn’t hit my particular sweet spot. Might be a good gift though, a conversation starter, or something to feature at a dinner party.
All that said, I think you should buy a bottle too. In all likelihood, you’ll have a similar experience – and maybe, just maybe, it’ll hit your sweet spot. Of course, there’s also the chance you’ll hate it. For $18, however, it’s not that much of a gamble.
Mike, i’ve been drinking “Il Falcone” since the late 90’s and have enjoyed many different vintages. i’ve also been fortunate to get to know Sebastian De Corato of Azienda Agricola Rivera in Andria, Puglia. in 2009 i did visit the estate, toured the winery and grounds, as well as taste almost every wine grown and produced at Rivera.
it is most definitely a different wine and maybe not for everyone, but the more adventurous palates! i’ve found most vintages to be well made and balanced with a distinct characterized structure.
i’m just curious to know where you were able to purchase a bottle for $18? the last time i checked, it retails for about $35 to $40 in NYC! also which vendemmia did you taste and drink?
wish i had some of the older vintages (like 1997 & 2000), those were stellar and more affordable as well!
thanks for posting and sharing this unique wine…wish PLCB could get their hands on some of this!
The ’08 is available in PA, right now, on Chairman’s for $17.99. All the more reason everyone should give it a shot.
thanks Mike. i’ll have to check out my local PLCB to see if they have this! if it was stored and shipped properly, for $17.99 it’s more than worth it!
Mike, picked up half a case of the 2008 Il Falcone today at my local PLCB premium store! they had a case and thought about taking the entire case, but didn’t want to “bogue” it all! plus at $17.99 a bottle, it’s a STEAL! i’ll post once i open one up to taste…thanks again!
Hallo Steven and Mike
thanks for the lovely words about our winery and wines.
Luigi, i don’t believe i met you when i was at Rivera in October of 2009. please pass along my regards to Sebastiano. i hope to see him sometime this year, either here in the US, or in Italy! ciao e grazie!
Ciao Steve, great to read your nice comments! I am so happy that our wines (Il Falcone for now) finally got into PA. I hope others will follow soon.
Luigi just joined Rivera a month ago and as you can see he is much better than me in social networks….
A presto!
Sebastiano