2018 Laura Aschero Rossese Riviera Ligure di Ponente

Region: Ponente DOC < Liguria < Italy

Grapes: Rossese 

Vineyard/cellar stats: Organic farming; terraced, coastal vineyards; 4-day fermentation in stainless then racked and pressed with the horizontal low pressure press for gentle extraction; bottled with minimal added So2; 12% ABV

Winemaker: Laura Aschero

Liguria is one of the most magical places on the Italian coast, the home of focaccia and pesto and so many other delicious things.  Like the sea salty coastal wines of the region!  The type for which Laura Aschero is famous.  A true pioneer for the quality wine movement there, she started her small project in the 80's, staying true to region's native varietals of the area: Vermentino, Pigato and the elusive red unicorn, Rossese.  Sadly, Laura passed away in 2009, but her son continues mom's traditions.

Although Rossese probably came to Liguria from the south of France, it is now considered the most important native red varietal of Liguria, but it is nearly impossible to find outside of the region.  The grape produces bright and fresh red wines that are closer to rosé than red in style and body.  Laura's Rossese is a translucent ruby in the glass, and on the palate, light, bright, tart and herbal, with practically non-existent tannins and pretty cherry, wild strawberry and spice that feels almost watered down (in a pleasant, easy way) by salt spray.  This is the perfect red pairing for fish!

SERVE SLIGHTLY CHILLED