What do you get when you mix sparkling wine made using the traditional method (the same method as for making champagne) with Italy’s most famous wine region, Tuscany, for Sangiovese wine? You get a Metodo Classico Rosé Extra Brut from Sangiovese and Pinot Bianco grapes. The folks at Vignamante sent me a bottle to try and share my thoughts with you.
About the introduction
In Tuscany, which is famous for red wines, Vignamaggio is one of the wineries trying out sparkling wines to boost local production. Vignamaggio has a non-vintage sparkling wine, Vignamante Metodo Classico Rosé Extra Brut, made from Sangiovese and Pinot Bianco, and it is aged for two years on the fine lees.
More about the wine
The wine’s name, Vignam-ante, blends the winery’s essence with the energy of sparkling wines, celebrating festivity. Each bottle invites you to enjoy a drink and savor special moments. The harvest scene on the label shows dedication to agricultural work and the joy of celebration. One of Italy’s oldest agricultural estates has chosen this moment to launch a unique product that embodies the spirit of sharing during harvest.
For this sparkling rosé from the hills of Greve in Chianti, Vignamaggio has combined the strength of Sangiovese with the elegance of Pinot Bianco, creating a distinctive mix of character and complexity. The result is a high-quality, non-vintage sparkling wine, produced in only 5,000 bottles, featuring an elegant old rose color and a delicate, lasting sparkle.
Winemaking and sparkling process
Vignamante is made from 50% Sangiovese and 50% Pinot Bianco grapes, harvested by hand in early September. The winemaking process involves soft pressing of the grapes and white alcoholic fermentation. This is done in contact with the skins in a stainless-steel tank at a temperature of 18-20°C. Bottling in spring began a 2-year process: the wine rested on the lees, developing complexity and character, and was finally ready during disgorgement. Liqueur d’expedition with sugar content of no more than 6 g/l was then added, fitting the extra brut category.
My personal tasting notes
Standing out is its old rose color, with aromas of bread, toast, fresh yeast, roses, red cherries,, and dried fruit like orange, lemon, and peach. The palate is creamy and dry, with medium (+) acidity. The mousse is fine and subtle, balancing brioche toast, spices, and fruit. There’s a lot of red cherries, dried orange, and dried lemon. A bit of wet stone adds nice mineral undertones, giving it an interesting extra layer. The medium finish is fresh with a good structure and some typical Tuscan herbs like rosemary and fennel. Really delicious.
Vignamante goes perfectly with all kinds of dishes. Think seafood appetizers with shellfish, pasta dishes and risotto, grilled fish and stews, and even moderately aged cheese.
This extra brut sparkling wine is the ideal drink for an actual gastronomic experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Vignamante Metodo Classico Rosé Extra Brut is an excellent sparkling wine that mixes the bold character of Sangiovese with the classy touch of Pinot Bianco. The careful winemaking process and commitment to quality give us a wine that’s not just pretty to look at but also super enjoyable to drink. Whether you sip it solo or with some tasty dishes, Vignamante will light up any moment with its festive vibe and complex flavors. It shows off Vignamaggio’s creative approach and dedication to top-notch winemaking. Cheers to finding and enjoying this Tuscan treasure!
Thanks again for letting me try this excellent wine.
More about the winery: www.vignamaggio.com
