What kind of wine is Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG Riserva 'Il Fondatore' 2022 - Montalbera?

The Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG Riserva 'Il Fondatore' 2022 - Montalbera is a Piedmontese red wine of great personality, an authentic expression of the Monferrato territory. It is made entirely from Ruché grapes, a rare and fascinating indigenous varietal, rediscovered in recent decades and now a symbol of elegance and typicality. This is a full-bodied and rich wine, capable of combining intense aromas with a soft but decisive structure, ideal for those seeking a unique and recognizable red.

Vintage details

The 2022 vintage was characterized by regular weather conditions, with hot and dry summers that favored optimal grape ripening. The harvest, carried out manually between late September and early October, allowed only the best bunches to be selected, ensuring concentrated raw material, rich in aromas, and well-balanced between sugars and acidity.

Vinification and aging

After harvesting, the grapes undergo controlled fermentation – a process in which yeasts convert sugars into alcohol – with prolonged maceration on the skins to extract color and tannins. Subsequently, the wine ages in French oak barrels for about 10-14 months, a step that enriches its bouquet and softens its structure. A further period in the bottle completes the aging, providing balance and complexity.

Tasting notes

Color

Visually, the Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG Riserva 'Il Fondatore' 2022 - Montalbera presents an intense ruby red color, embellished with garnet reflections that anticipate its maturity and aromatic depth.

Nose

The aroma is broad and distinctive, dominated by floral notes of rose and violet, followed by spicy hints of black pepper, cinnamon, and vanilla. There are also fruity nuances of ripe cherry and plum jam, which, thanks to aging in wood, are enriched with more complex and enveloping tones.

Palate

On the palate, it is harmonious and powerful at the same time. The body is full, supported by good acidity that enhances its freshness. The tannins – the natural substances responsible for the sensation of astringency – are well integrated, offering an elegant and velvety structure. The persistence is long, with a savory and spicy finish that invites a second sip.

Food pairings for Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG Riserva 'Il Fondatore' 2022 - Montalbera

This wine is wonderfully suited to accompany savory and traditional Piedmontese dishes. Recommended pairings include:

• Braised or roasted red meats
• Aged and hard cheeses
• Game or wild boar ragout
• Dishes with mushrooms and truffles

Its balanced structure and intense aromatic profile also make it ideal for enjoying on its own, as a meditation wine.

Storage and aging – how to store Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG Riserva 'Il Fondatore' 2022 - Montalbera wine

To preserve its qualities over time, it is advisable to store Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG Riserva 'Il Fondatore' 2022 - Montalbera wine in a cool, dry place, away from light, with a constant temperature between 12 and 16 °C. The bottle should be kept horizontally to keep the cork moist, preventing air infiltration.

Thanks to its structure and natural aromatic complexity, this wine has an excellent aging potential. If well stored, it can be enjoyed even after 8-10 years from the vintage, during which time it develops further nuances of elegance and depth.