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.
COMPOSITION OF THE CUVÉE: Pinot Nero 70%, Chardonnay 30%
DOSAGE: Brut
PRODUCTION METHOD: 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 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 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 undergoes 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”.
TASTING NOTES: 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 aftertaste.
FIRST VINTAGE PRODUCED: 2016