Bodegas Carelli Carla Chiaro Reserve Bonarda

Here are creative and unique serving suggestions for the red wine:

- Serve slightly chilled (16-18°C) in a medium to large wine glass to highlight its vibrant aromas and soften tannins optionally decant for 20 minutes before serving to open up flavors.

- Create an Argentine-inspired appetizer platter featuring mixed cured meats (smoked ham salami) roasted red peppers marinated olives and aged cheeses like Manchego or Provolone for a lively start to an informal gathering.

- Present alongside a DIY taco bar with slow-cooked pork or lamb topped with pickled onions fresh cilantro and crumbled queso fresco; the wine’s bright acidity will cut through the richness.

- Use as a glaze or poaching liquid for duck breast or pork tenderloin adding fresh herbs and a touch of honey—serve the meat sliced with a drizzle of the reduced wine sauce on the plate for an elegant presentation.

- Pair with homemade meat ravioli or stuffed pasta tossed in a light tomato and basil sauce served with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for textural contrast and aromatic depth.

- Feature it in a rustic picnic setting poured from a squat decanter into stemless glasses paired with crusty bread fig jam and a charcuterie board—invite guests to sip while casually enjoying outdoor games or music.

- Add a surprising twist by incorporating the wine into a sangria-style spritz mixing with sparkling water or a touch of Aperol fresh black cherries orange slices and a sprig of rosemary served over ice on a warm afternoon.

- Best enjoyed on casual occasions like a backyard barbecue or game night where its medium body and bright fruit can complement grilled meats (lamb chops bacon burgers) and flavorful street foods without overpowering.

These ideas leverage the wine’s approachable acidity medium body and fruit character while encouraging creative pairings and presentations beyond standard serving advice.

For optimal storage of a dry red wine like Bonarda 2018 maintain a constant temperature between 55°F and 65°F (12°C–18°C) with around 55°F (13°C) often considered ideal. Avoid fluctuations or extremes above 70°F or below 45°F to prevent premature aging or spoilage.

Light Exposure: Store the wine in a dark place away from direct sunlight and fluorescent lights as UV rays can degrade the wine’s aroma and flavor.

Humidity: Keep relative humidity at 50–70% ideally around 60-70% to prevent cork drying and shrinking which could allow air infiltration and spoilage. Use a humidifier if your storage area is too dry or a dehumidifier if too humid to avoid mold growth.

Sealing: Ensure the bottle is well sealed with its natural cork to maintain the integrity of the wine over time. For opened bottles use a vacuum pump or inert gas wine preservers to minimize oxidation and consume within 3-5 days.

Bottle Position: Store bottles horizontally to keep the cork moist and swollen preventing air from entering. This is especially important for long-term storage of cork-sealed bottles.

Additional Tips:

- Avoid vibration and movement which disturb sediment and the aging process; store the bottles in a stable quiet environment.
- For opened bottles after resealing keep them refrigerated even if red to slow oxidation.

These practical measures ensure that this dry red wine maintains its quality and longevity whether unopened or once opened.