It is named after a spelling mistake in the transcription of a passage of the Natural History by Pliny the Elder, written between 23 and 79 AD, in which, in the illustration of winegrowing in Roman times in the province of Gallia Narbonensis, “vitis Caburnicam” appeared by mistake instead of “Narbonicam, Narbonensis”.
“In the last seven years, a vine which buds in a single day and is therefore very strong, has been introduced in Alba Helvia; it is called Caburnicam and is planted today all over the province.”
It is made of Cabernet Sauvignon (from 60 to 50% depending on the vintage), Alicante-Bouschet (30-20%) and Merlot (20-10%).
For 12 months, 50% matures in steel and the other 50% matures in barriques and tonneaux made of medium-toasted French oak, only 25-30% of which are new.
It then spends another 12 months in the bottle before being released for sale.
It is a complex yet fresh wine and it is very drinkable.