Damson plum, mocha latte, bruised cherry. Boysenberry reduction, sweet tobacco, poppyseed muffin. Red clay bricks and barnyard, cinnamon and wood smoke. Blueberry hot chocolate made with milk; exhibiting just a touch of rusticity. Extraordinarily balanced and lean. This 2017 Refosco by Tenuta Mosole is a fantastically unique Italian wine you've probably never heard of.

Rofosco is an esoteric ancient grape varietal native to the Veneto region of North-Western Italy. Its spread outside its homeland has been relatively limited, but it has the capability to produce deep, powerful, and compelling wine. This bottling, crafted by boutique Italian producer Tentuta Mosole, has body and richness far beyond its modest weight. At 13.0% ABV it is neither heavy nor broad yet its silky tannins caress the palate in a way not often seen outside of fine Bordeaux varietal wines. Reminiscent of chocolate sponge cake in its flavorful softness this stuff was a wonderful surprise from the first sip. A slight touch of clay and digested hay funk almost takes this to right bank Bordeaux territory, although it has a distinctly "not merlot" profile. While Refosco might not be a household name you should absolutely give some a try next time you spot a bottle.