Cuvée San Rocco – Rosé Sparkling Wine – Tenuta Carretta – 2023

Cuvée San Rocco Rosé Sparkling Wine from Tenuta Carretta Winery

The Cuvée San Rocco is a Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC Sparkling Rosé produced by the renowned Tenuta Carretta winery. This sparkling wine, crafted using the classic extra brut method, represents a fascinating variation of the famous nebbiolo grape, primarily known for producing great red wines. Although nebbiolo has a reputation for its austere Piedmontese character, its versatility has been appreciated since the 19th century when winemakers sought to create wines capable of aging well. The Cuvée San Rocco, born from the San Rocco vineyards in the municipality of Alba, is a dry and decisive wine, with great structure and personality.

The Winemaking

The winemaking process for Cuvée San Rocco begins with whole-cluster pressing of nebbiolo grapes using a pneumatic press to protect the must from oxidation. After a few hours of skin maceration, the free-run juice is fermented at a controlled temperature of 16°C and aged in stainless steel tanks for at least six months. In the April following the harvest, the wine is bottled for secondary fermentation, followed by 18 months of bottle aging, culminating in disgorgement. This meticulous process imparts the wine with its distinctive complexity and structure.

Tasting the wine by Tenuta Carretta

In the glass, Cuvée San Rocco presents a fine and abundant, persistent mousse. The color resembles blonde onion skin with golden reflections, a visual prelude to its aromatic complexity. On the nose, it opens with broad aromas of rose, withered flowers, dried fruit, and bread crust, evolving to plum notes at higher temperatures. On the palate, the wine is full and harmonious, marked by pronounced sapidity, excellent structure, and a lively, pleasant finish that lingers.

Food Pairings

Thanks to its organoleptic characteristics, Cuvée San Rocco is an ideal companion throughout the meal. Its versatility allows it to complement both refined and simple dishes, enhancing flavors with its vivacity and structure. It is recommended to serve it at a temperature of 9-11°C to fully appreciate its nuances.

In summary, the Cuvée San Rocco from Tenuta Carretta is a sparkling wine that blends tradition and innovation, offering a new perspective on nebbiolo through its classic method and distinctive taste profile. Perfect for special occasions or convivial moments, it is an excellent choice for wine lovers who appreciate characterful wines.

THE AWARDS

2021
– James Suckling 91/100

THE WINERY

Founded in 1467, Tenuta Carretta is one of Italy’s oldest wineries, located in the picturesque landscape of Piobesi d’Alba, in the heart of Roero, Piedmont. This winery is not only a symbol of tradition but also an example of how the past, present, and future can harmoniously coexist. … keep reading