Grape: Pinot Noir 85%, Chardonnay 15%. Region: Northern Italy> Lombardy> Atla Langa. Notes: No oak. No herbicides. No pesticides. Old vines. Method Champenois.
Description: To wander through the caves at Contratto, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is to shake the living hand of almost 150 years of tradition of Italian sparkling wine. The very first bottles of Italian method champenoise were made here. Contratto was the supplier not only to the Vatican, but also to the Italian Royal Family and the British monarchy. The wine exhibits depth and complexity that could rival the most spectacular of Champagne. The vines are over 40 years old, and are at the highest elevation along the spine of the Alpine mountains, soon to be the new “Alta Langa” appellation. Contrato is now owned and directed by renowned producer Giorgio Rivetti of La Spinetta. This is a vintage character sparkling that the producer chooses to release fairly late. The sparkling exhibits deep yellow-gold reflections which is brought on by its maturity. The aromas are all shortbread yeast and orange blossoms. The atmospheric pressure has calmed through the years and forms a light mousse. The palate is dry with complext bread dough, orange blossom, and a touch of citrus on the finish.
Food pairings: Appetizers, Asian cuisine, butter sauce, caviar, egg dishes, fried food, ham, shellfish (Lobster, oysters, crab), beef w/ au jus, white truffles, cheeses (Parmigiano - Reggiano, brie, gouda, gruyere, etc), etc.