What kind of wine is Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG 'Laccento' 2023 - Montalbera

The Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG 'Laccento' 2023 - Montalbera is one of the most elegant and representative expressions of this rare Piedmontese grape variety. Produced entirely from Ruché grapes, cultivated in the hills of Monferrato, it is a red wine that stands out for its aromatic intensity, softness on the palate, and balanced structure.

The “Laccento” label originates from Montalbera's experience in creating a wine capable of combining the typical freshness of Ruché with a pleasant, round finish, achieved by briefly air-drying a small portion of the grapes on the vine. The result is an enveloping red, modern yet true to local traditions.

Vintage Details

The 2023 vintage was characterized by balanced climatic conditions, with mild temperatures and a good diurnal temperature range. This allowed the grapes to ripen uniformly, yielding intense aromas and perfectly mature tannins. The harvest, performed manually, ensured a careful selection of the best bunches.

Winemaking and aging

The vinification of Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG 'Laccento' 2023 - Montalbera takes place in stainless steel at controlled temperatures, with maceration on the skins for several days to extract colors and aromas without excessive tannicity. After fermentation, a portion of the dried grapes is added to enrich the wine's aromatic profile and softness. Aging continues for several months in stainless steel and then in the bottle, to further refine the aromas and taste balance.

Tasting Notes

Color

In the glass, it presents a brilliant ruby red with purplish reflections, a sign of youth and vitality. The clarity and consistency of the wine anticipate a beautiful structure and a fair softness.

Nose

The bouquet is immediate and enveloping: aromas of rose petals and violet intertwine with notes of ripe cherry, plum, and subtle spicy nuances of cinnamon and nutmeg. The floral and fruity aromaticity is the distinctive feature of Ruché, which in this version offers its purest expression.

Taste

On the palate, the wine reveals a soft and velvety texture, supported by fine and well-integrated tannins. The structure is balanced by a pleasant freshness that makes it easy and engaging to drink. Persistent on the finish, it leaves sensations of red fruit and a delicate spicy echo in the mouth.

Food pairings for Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG 'Laccento' 2023 - Montalbera

This wine pairs elegantly with a wide range of dishes. Perfect with Piedmontese cuisine, it ideally accompanies:

• appetizers of cured meats and semi-aged cheeses;
• pasta dishes with meat sauces or porcini mushrooms;
• roasted white meats or baked rabbit;
• spicy or slightly sweet and sour dishes, such as Asian fusion cuisine.

Also ideal as a meditation wine, thanks to its softness and aromatic complexity.

Storage and aging: how to store Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG 'Laccento' 2023 - Montalbera

To maintain the integrity of the characteristics of Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG 'Laccento' 2023 - Montalbera, it is advisable to store it in a cool environment with a constant temperature, around 14-16°C, away from sources of light and heat. The bottle should be kept in a horizontal position so that the cork remains constantly moist.

While enjoyable to drink young, thanks to its structure and intense aromaticity, it can evolve positively for 4-6 years, developing more complex and spicy notes. A wine to enjoy today, but also capable of surprising over time.