The thick skins of Gaglioppo, replete with tannins, are responsible for the robust character of the reds from the Cirò DOC. Librandi, still family-run, is one of the leaders in the region. This wine, their flagship red, is made entirely from Gaglioppo grown in the Cirò and Cirò Marina communes, the historic heart of the DOC. Only wines made from grapes grown in these two zones can be labeled Cirò Classico. The importance of these two zones is readily apparent: when Cirò receives its DOCG this year, regulations require that the grapes come exclusively from these two communes and not from any other communes in the DOC. The Riserva designation indicates that the wine has undergone an extra year of aging prior to release. The hearty 2021 Duca Sanfelice, a warming wine, delivers a charming rusticity that makes it a perfect accompaniment to hearty meals this winter or a robust, garlic laden grilled leg of lamb this summer.
90 Michael Apstein – June 18, 2025