Wines Unspecified Masi - Nectar Costasera - 2016

Viniou Reviews

The 2016 Cuvée Nectar Costasera from Masi is a remarkable red wine that pays homage to the rich heritage of the Veneto region in Northern Italy. Although the precise blend is not detailed here, Costasera is traditionally crafted using indigenous grape varieties such as Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara, which are quintessential to the Venetian reds. The 2016 vintage benefited from a warm, balanced growing season, allowing the grapes to reach excellent ripeness. Masi is renowned for employing the appassimento method, whereby grapes are partially dried before fermentation, resulting in a wine with concentrated aromas, depth, and a velvety texture. This technique imparts luscious dark fruit notes, hints of dried fig, spice, and cocoa, wrapped in soft, integrated tannins.

Veneto’s sprawling vineyards are shaped by an interplay of continental and Mediterranean influences, with breezes from Lake Garda moderating temperatures and promoting slow, even maturation of the fruit. The soils are predominantly alluvial and calcareous, lending freshness and complexity to the wines. Veneto has an ancient winemaking tradition, being the birthplace of both everyday pleasures and world-celebrated labels. Masi, as a house, epitomises this legacy, bringing together classic methods and modern expertise.

For food pairings, the depth and richness of the Cuvée Nectar Costasera make it an ideal companion to robust dishes. It shines alongside slow-cooked beef or lamb, wild boar ragu, or traditional Venetian ossobuco. For a regional touch, consider serving it with risotto all’Amarone, porcini mushroom pasta, or mature cheeses such as Grana Padano or Monte Veronese. The wine’s structure and supple tannins enhance the flavours of braised meats and earthy vegetables.

To best appreciate its aromatic complexity and texture, serve this wine slightly below room temperature, at around 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour before serving will allow its bouquet to open fully, revealing the wine’s signature harmony and depth.