Villa Matilde Falerno del Massico Bianco Collecastrese 2023
Wine
Name: Falerno del Massico DOP Bianco "Collecastrese"
Winery: Villa Matilde Avallone
Grapes: 100% Falanghina
Origin: San Castrese vineyard, Cellole, Campania, Italy
Vintage: 2023
Average Price: 16 EUR
Appearance
Intensity: Pale
Colour: Lemon
Nose
Intensity: Medium(+)
Aroma Characteristics:
Primary: White peach, ripe pear, lemon zest, chamomile, fennel, crushed stone
Secondary: Subtle creamy, lees-derived notes
Tertiary: None yet, youthful
Palate
Sweetness: Dry
Acidity: High
Alcohol: Medium
Body: Medium
Flavour Intensity: Medium(+)
Flavour Characteristics: Citrus and white peach, with bitter almond and a saline, mineral streak
Other Observations: Textural roundness from the lees and the short amphora ageing
Finish: Medium(+)
Conclusions
Quality Assessment: Very good. Vibrant balance between the high acidity and the lees-driven texture, with good intensity and length and extra complexity from the amphora. A true expression of Falanghina on volcanic soils.
Bottle Ageing: Can drink now, but has the potential to evolve for another 3 to 5 years.
Final Remarks
Collecastrese comes from the San Castrese vineyard, around 140 metres above sea level on the volcanic soils of the Roccamonfina, rich in phosphorus and potassium. After cryo-maceration and a cool fermentation in steel, the wine rests about three months on the lees, and 30% of it spends around two months in terracotta amphora. It tastes of its volcanic origin and of the sea breeze, and it is a living link to the Falernian wines of ancient Rome. Perfect with mozzarella di bufala, raw seafood and fried fish. Read the full story of my visit in Wine Stories. Compliments to the Avallone family!
