I had the opportunity to try some distinctive varietals the other night with my wine peeps.  As Italy has over 800 different grape varietals, you’re bound to taste something you’ve never tasted before.  Enter the Lacrima Di Morro D’Alba. Every one of us in that room was astounded by this wine. D’arci couldn’t stop smelling it, and James…well let’s just say…his comment couldn’t have come from anyone else BUT James!  (And I wouldn’t want to misquote him, so I choose not to repeat it… 🙂

From Marotti Campi in the province of  Ancona in Marche, Italy, this grape is rarely found outside the town of Morro D’Alba.  So literally, this is the Lacrima grape FROM Morro D’Alba. Lacrima means “tear” in Italian.  It’s name was either derived from it’s “teardrop” shape or alternatively, it’s thin skin that allows tear-like drops of juice to drip from the grape.

And I… have never had anything like this.  First of all, I also couldn’t keep my nose out of the glass!  Distinctive notes of violets, rosewater and green cardamom.  For me, all blending into…wait for it…Chanel No.5!  What??  Thank goodness it didn’t TASTE like Chanel No.5, although what was in my nose, was very much on the palate! The rosewater, violets and spice continued!

At 38 bucks, you better know this is what you want!  And pairings?  With such a complex grape/wine, I believe simple is better.  The key is to have either your wine shine, or your food shine.  This wine is worth shining, so keep your food simple like a beef or pork tenderloin with good old salt and pepper!