Badebec Rosso, Cuneaz Nadir - 2020

I love borderlands as they are always interesting mixes of cultures, languages, and traditions. Italy's Aosta Valley is a fantastic example of this blurring and blending. I find no less than 8 different local names for this special Alpine place at the border of Italy, France, and Switzerland. The labels are a mishmash of Italian and French, which warms my aspiring polyglot heart. La Cantina di Cunéaz Nadir is a tiny winery nestled in the high and steep hills here. The Badebec Rosso is far from your typical Aostan red however. This is a passito-style wine made from Petit Rouge, Fumin, and everyone's favorite Vien de Nus. It is dry and more medium-bodied than your typical red from here. Dried cherry, anise, earth with nice acidity and mellow tannins make for a unique and delicious addition to your table.