2020 Foresti Rossese di Dolceacqua

Region: Ponente DOC < Liguria < Italy

Grapes: Rossese di Ventimiglia

Vineyard/cellar stats: Organic farming; calcareous sands on steep, well-drained coastal slopes; 10-day fermentation in stainless then racked and pressed with the horizontal low pressure press for gentle extraction, matured in stainless steel tanks for 8 months and in bottle for 3 months before release; bottled with minimal added So2; 13.5% ABV

Winemaker: Marco Foresti

Liguria is one of the most magical places on the Italian coast, the home of focaccia and pesto and so many other delicious things -- including the sea-salty coastal wines of the region!  Like Rossese di Dolceacqua, the definitiive Ligurian red that is charmingly aromatic, savory, herbal.   In a defined zone at the extreme edges of western Liguria close to the border of France, a limited number of vines continue to be cultivated in the ancient way. Foresti sources from a few pristine organic vineyards from the coastal town of Ventimiglia, and inland along the Torrente Nervia River to the village of Dolceacqua.

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 speak to Cru Beaujolais + Pinot Noir fans.  Third generation farmer/vigernon Marco's Rossese is a light ruby color in the glass, and on the palate, bright, tart and herbal, with practically non-existent tannins and pretty cherry, rhubarb and spice that feels jazzed up by salt spray.   This is the perfect red wine pairing for fish!  Also great with any pesto dish, pasta with a puttanesca sauce, or anything containing capers and anchovies.

SERVE SLIGHTLY CHILLED