FLC #23 - Francesco Scala / Azienda Agricola Scala
Cirò is a DOC located in Calabria, in the deep south of Italy. This is one of the oldest named wine-growing regions with a thousand-year long history of winemaking. The vineyards are along the Mediterranean coast, and it’s thanks to this proximity that winemaking is possible. The brutally hot Calabrian days are moderated by the cooling sea breezes. Most of the grape varieties grown here are only found in Calabria – Gaglioppo, Greco, Magliocco, Nerello, and Mantonico.
Grape growers since the 17th century, the Scala family formed their Azienda Agricola in 1949 to produce and sell Cirò wines. Their 18 hectares of vineyards look out upon the Mediterranean. The Scala family have blended ancient tradition with modern practices. This mix of the old and the new is apparent when you visit their winery – an old farmhouse that has been there for generations holds a completely modern winemaking facility. The winery is currently overseen by Luigi and Francesco Scala. They grow the traditional varieties of the region, with the main star being Gaglioppo. Gaglioppo is a red variety, known for its thick skins and its ability to withstand the hot summer days of Calabria. Premium examples of Gaglioppo are tannic, robust and ageworthy.
The Scala family’s primary goal is to showcase excellent Calabrian wine. The focus on quality reigns supreme over large production volumes, so you can always be assured that you’re getting the best possible wine from them. As of 2016, all of the wines are certified organic, but the winery has been practicing low intervention and vinification methods for many years. The Scala wines are noted for being brighter, packed with character, and engaging.
Our First Look Club feature this month is Scala’s Cirò Rosso, made from 100% Gaglioppo. It is full-bodied, with persistent aromas and well-balanced structure - a great introduction to Gaglioppo and Calabrian red wine.