Villa Sandi Valdobbiadene Superiore di Cartizze DOCG Brut “Vigna La Rivetta” 2021

Winery Background and History

Villa Sandi, located in the heart of Italy’s Prosecco region, is renowned for its production of high-quality sparkling wines. The estate is anchored by a historic Palladian-style villa dating back to 1622, reflecting the family’s deep-rooted connection to the Venetian wine culture. As the largest owner of estate vineyards in the Conegliano-Valdobbiadene area, Villa Sandi offers a diverse portfolio, including the esteemed “Vigna La Rivetta” from the Cartizze DOCG, the pinnacle of Prosecco quality.

Producer and Winemaker

The Moretti Polegato family has been the steward of Villa Sandi since the late 1970s, preserving and enhancing its legacy. Their dedication to elevating Prosecco production is evident in their meticulous vineyard management and innovative winemaking techniques. The estate’s commitment to sustainability and biodiversity further underscores their role as leaders in the region.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The “Vigna La Rivetta” vineyard is situated within the prestigious Cartizze area, a 106-hectare zone known for its steep, south-facing slopes. The unique combination of a gentle microclimate and ancient soils composed of calcareous sandstones and clays contributes to the exceptional quality of the grapes. These conditions foster wines of great persistence and elegance, characterized by floral notes and hints of fruit and aromatic herbs.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested in mid-September and undergo soft pressing to extract the must. After an initial racking, the must is stored in temperature-controlled tanks until fermentation. Secondary fermentation occurs at 15-16°C to preserve the fresh aromas of the harvest. Once the desired alcohol and sugar levels are achieved, fermentation is halted through refrigeration. The wine then rests on the lees for a brief period before bottling, enhancing its complexity and mouthfeel.

Tasting Notes

The 2021 “Vigna La Rivetta” Brut offers a refined bouquet with delicate floral aromas, complemented by notes of ripe golden apple, exotic fruits, and citrus. On the palate, it presents a harmonious balance of crisp acidity and subtle minerality, leading to a clean, persistent finish. This expression is notably drier than traditional Cartizze offerings, showcasing a focused and bright profile.

Food & Wine Pairing

This sparkling wine is versatile, serving as an elegant aperitif or a complement to various dishes. It pairs exceptionally well with marinated rock-fish, salmon tartare, and other delicate seafood preparations. Its vibrant acidity and depth also make it suitable for richer pasta dishes, such as fettuccine Alfredo.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic profile and freshness, serve the “Vigna La Rivetta” Brut chilled at a temperature of 6-8°C. Using a tulip-shaped sparkling wine glass will enhance the sensory experience.

Storage and Aging Potential

While this wine is crafted for immediate enjoyment, it possesses the structure to evolve gracefully over the next 3-5 years. Proper storage in a cool, dark environment will allow its nuanced flavors to develop further.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Glera

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

11%

Scores and Accolades

• 93 Points: Michael Apstein highlights its subtle fruitiness, distinct minerality, and fine texture.

• 91 Points: Monica Larner of Wine Advocate notes its delicate complexity with floral aromas and a compact, fine finish.