The most successful Bordeaux-style blend from Kurtatsch, based in the Dolomite Alps. Flavours of kirsch, mint and panettone.

Soma is a blend of 60% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, grown on the south-facing slopes of the Dolomite Alps (pictured). Merlot sets the main theme of blueberry and blackberry, which is followed by notes of kirsch and mint from Cabernet Franc. Cabernet Sauvignon rounds it off with the depth of ripe prunes. Soma is dedicated to the 100th anniversary of Kurtatsch: the winery has been running since 1900. On the label, it has a painting of Mother Nature by artist Sigrid Trojer.

Winemaking

Soma is another Bordeaux-style blend from this winery, similar to Kurtatsch Curtis 2018. But while Curtis is made in a more fresh and fruity style, Soma offers a deeper flavour and is designed for longer cellaring. The Merlot and Cabernet grapes for Soma are fermented using rotary fermentation. Here, instead of punching the cap down or pumping over, the grape must slowly rotates in the barrel. This process provides a more consistent contact between the juice and the skins, helping to extract more colour and flavours. Soma undergoes a longer maturation process, too. It’s first aged for twelve months in French oak barriques. Then, it spends another year in large oak barrels, where its tannins get softer.

Tasting notes

Deep ruby colour. Soma offers a pronounced aromatic intensity, with notes of blueberry, kirsch, mint, white pepper and sweet pannetone. This wine has velvety tannins, medium acidity, high alcohol and a full body. On the palate, it has rich and deep flavours of black fruits with a sour undertone along with hints of peppery smoke and minerality.

Wine Geek’s verdict: Quite a complex and fresh wine. It’s still developing, and is just starting to become interesting now – three years after harvest. While it can be enjoyed right away, it’s certainly going to improve and develop further in the cellar. The aromas of sour cherry, mint and white pepper are quite strong – I think Cabernet Franc plays first fiddle.

Awards

I Vini di Veronelli 2020 – 3 stars (92 points, 2016 vintage)