Alta Langa Classic Method

Alta Langa Classic Method

Alta Langa DOCG

Contessa Rosa Brut Rosé

Grapes

Pinot nero, Chardonnay

Area

Langa albese and astigiana

Soil type

White clay alternated with layers of sand and calcareous marl

Exposure and altitude

South/south-west - 400/650m asl

System

Guyot 5.000 plants/ha

Harvest

Beginning of September

Gradation

12% vol

Temperature

6-8 °C

Size

0,75 L

Technical notes

Vinification: most of the grapes are harvested into crates with a capacity of about 20 kg and then poured
directly into the press, where they are delicately and softly crushed. Part of the Pinot Noir is crushed and left on skins in temperature-controlled tanks at 10 °C for 12-24 hours. After maceration, it undergoes soft-pressing as usual. The must obtained is transferred to temperature-controlled tanks where static decanting takes place. The must ferments in stainless steel tanks at a low temperature (18 – 20 °C) and when the fermentation is complete, the wine is kept on the fine lees until spring. This is when the cuvée is created, uniting the wines from the two fermentation processes. In May the wine under goes a second fermentation, in the bottle, followed by a period of 48 months of maturing in contact with the yeasts, in the cool, dark and protected environment of the cellars, in observance of the strict rules that govern the production of “Spumante Metodo Classico” (Classic Method Sparkling Wine).

Tasting notes

Contessa Rosa represents the true spirit of Fontanafredadda: named after Countess Rosa Vercellana, known as “Bela Rusin”, this sparkling wine, made from grapes grown at high altitudes, expresses the union of aromatic freshness and complexity of the great wine Barolo. A new method has been undertaken for the creation of this cuvée, using an expedition liqueur with 1967 Barolo. The result is a soft pink coloured sparkling wine with onion-shaded highlights. The perfume is reminiscent of the scent of orange blossom, pomegranate, chinotto orange and black plums, terminating with ginger, nutmeg, lavender, basil and background of custard. The sparkle is fine and persistent in the mouth and the acidity is balanced with a sweet note. A mineral, savoury tasting sensation ends with a citrusy after taste.

Pairings

Excellent as an aperitif, but its personality makes it, above all, an excellent way of accompanying all courses of a meal with class.

awards

2014

The Wine Advocate

92

2012

Prosit

The Wine Advocate

92

2011

Vinous

91

Wine Enthusiast

Editor's choice - 94 pts

2008

I vini di Veronelli