To create the Blood of Judas wine, you will need a variety of grapes known for their intense color and bold flavors. The primary grape used is the Sagrantino grape, which is native to the Montefalco region in Italy. Sagrantino grapes are small and thick-skinned, packed with powerful tannins and deep color pigments that contribute to the wine’s characteristic taste and appearance.
The first step in making Blood of Judas wine is harvesting the Sagrantino grapes at the peak of their ripeness. This is crucial to ensure optimal flavor and sugar content. The grapes are hand-picked to ensure the highest quality, and only the best bunches are selected for fermentation.
After harvest, the grapes are destemmed and crushed. The process of destemming removes the stems, which can add a bitter taste to the wine. Crushing the grapes breaks their skins and releases the juice, which is then ready for fermentation.
To extract the maximum richness and intensity from the grapes, the fermentation process often involves extended maceration. This means leaving the grape juice in contact with the skins and pulp for an extended period, allowing for the extraction of color, tannins, and flavor compounds. The duration of maceration depends on the winemaker’s preference, but it typically ranges from several days to a few weeks.
Following fermentation, the wine is transferred to oak barrels for aging. The oak barrels add complexity and depth to the wine’s flavors and aromas. The Blood of Judas wine is often aged in oak for a minimum of one year but can be aged for up to five years or more, depending on the desired characteristics.
During the aging process, the wine undergoes a transformation, becoming more refined and balanced. The tannins soften, and the flavors integrate, creating a harmonious and complex drink. The oak barrels also impart subtle notes of vanilla, spice, and toast, which further contribute to the wine’s unique profile.
Once the aging period is complete, the wine is carefully blended and bottled. The Blood of Judas wine is typically presented in elegant, dark glass bottles, emphasizing its dark and alluring color. It is recommended to allow the wine to breathe and develop further by decanting it before serving.
When pouring the Blood of Judas wine, you will be captivated by its deep, velvety red appearance. The wine offers a full-bodied experience with bold flavors of dark fruits, such as blackberries and plums, accompanied by hints of chocolate and spices. The tannins provide a robust structure, while the oak aging adds complexity and depth to the overall taste profile.
In conclusion, making Blood of Judas wine requires careful selection of Sagrantino grapes, precise fermentation techniques, and appropriate aging in oak barrels. The resulting wine is a captivating and powerful drink that stands out for its deep, dark color and bold flavors. If you are a wine enthusiast looking for an exceptional and compelling choice, the Blood of Judas wine might be just what you are seeking.