Ferrari Perlé Rosé Riserva 2017

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1902 by Giulio Ferrari in Trento, Italy, Ferrari Trento has established itself as a premier producer of traditional method sparkling wines. Giulio Ferrari’s pioneering vision was to create Italian sparkling wines that could rival the finest French Champagnes. In 1952, the Lunelli family assumed control of the winery, maintaining its commitment to quality and expanding its global presence. Today, Ferrari Trento is celebrated for its excellence and is recognized as a symbol of the Italian art of living. 

Producer and Winemaker

The Lunelli family continues to oversee Ferrari Trento, ensuring that the founder’s dedication to quality and tradition endures. The winemaking team employs meticulous methods, including hand-harvesting and extended aging on the lees, to craft wines that embody elegance and complexity. 

Vineyards and Microclimate

Ferrari Perlé Rosé 2017 is produced from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes cultivated in the Trentino region’s mountainous vineyards. The area’s high altitudes and calcareous soils provide an ideal environment for grape growing, with significant diurnal temperature variations contributing to the development of fresh acidity and complex flavors in the fruit. 

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• 80% Pinot Noir

• 20% Chardonnay

Vinification & Aging Methods

Employing the traditional metodo classico, the grapes are hand-harvested at the end of September and undergo gentle pressing. The wine is then aged on its lees for at least five years, allowing it to develop depth and complexity. This extended aging process imparts nuanced flavors and a refined mousse to the final product. 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12.5% 

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Lightly tawny hue with fine bubbles.

• Nose: The bouquet is intense, featuring notes of blood orange, redcurrants, plums, and raspberries, complemented by hints of sugared almonds and aromatic breads.

• Palate: On the palate, it reveals a rich yet elegant structure, with well-honed acidity enmeshed with flavors of nectarine, plum skin, and raspberry fruit, accented by smoked almond, tea leaf, vanilla, and fleur de sel. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This versatile sparkling wine pairs beautifully with a range of dishes. It serves as an excellent aperitif and complements lighter fare such as Milanese veal cutlet and focaccia with lard from Colonnata. Its balanced acidity and effervescence also make it a delightful companion to creamy cheeses and light pasta dishes. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic profile and crispness, serve Ferrari Perlé Rosé 2017 well-chilled at a temperature of 6-8°C (43-46°F). Pour gently into a tulip-shaped glass to concentrate the aromas and maintain the fine perlage. Allowing the wine a few moments to breathe after pouring can enhance its expressive character.

Storage and Aging Potential

While Ferrari Perlé Rosé 2017 is crafted for immediate enjoyment, it can develop additional complexity with short-term cellaring. For optimal freshness and flavor, it is recommended to consume within 2-3 years of purchase. Store the bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature to preserve its quality.

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 94 points