Review: Marzadro Le Diciotto Lune Stravecchia Grappa
Ah, grappa. Brandy’s skunky cousin.
I’m still a bit lost on the appeal of grappa — which is made from grape pomace — skins, seeds, and stems leftover from the winemaking process, rather than the grape juice itself, as brandy is made.
But even I will recognize there are some fine grappas out there, especially those which have been aged in wood casks to mellow out the skunky funkiness that’s ubiquitous with this spirit.
Producer Marzadro’s Le Diciotto Lune Stravecchia Grappa is a rarity in the grappa world, made from the pomace of eight types of grapes, aged in barrels made from four different kinds of wood, and with each cask aged for a variable time ranging from 18 months to five years. The result is a complex blend of spirits that is unmistakeably grappa but which is at least a more interesting expression of this Italian national beverage.
Le Diciotto Lune is intriguing. The nose has that nutty, earthy character common among grappa, and your first few sips continue the experience. But as you continue to explore the spirit the grappa opens up, offering sweet vanilla notes alongside flavors of golden raisins, light sherry character, and dried apples, oranges, and peaches. There’s a lot of heat in this grappa (it comes in at 82 proof), so sipping is advised, preferably as you consume it slowly and in moderation after a fine meal.
82 proof.
A- / $90 / marzadro.it
Marzadro Le Diciotto Lune Stravecchia Grappa
$90
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I spent a month in Italy and discovered Grappa last summer. I essentially spent the whole trip finding every different kind I could. And after having the Diciotto, I couldn’t go back to anything else.
I was in Italy for the first time in the summer and I was giving a taste of the Diciotto (my fist taste of Grappa) and I most say that it was absolutely beautiful. I would like to buy it in the UK any ideas where are can buy it?
I am thinking of importing this product in the UK, would this be of interest?
In late 2007 you could get from Alvini Co Ltd, Unit 2&3, 199 Eade Road, London, N4 1DN. 02088802526.
I had contacted the distllery in Italy after drinking the grappa in Europe. Back then Alvini was the sole distributer in the UK. I went up to N4 and bought a couple of bottles. Apparently they are also based in Leeds. Wheteher they still do it, I dont know.
Having tasted several different fine grappas this one tops them all.
Sipping a few drops a time gives remarkable joy to the palate