Frequently Asked Questions
The **Ruchè di Castagnole Monferrato Opera Prima** from Ferraris Agricola is a distinguished masterpiece that encapsulates the elegance and depth of the Ruchè grape, exclusive to the Piedmont region of Italy. Crafted from a single vineyard, Bricco della Gioia, this Riserva wine harmonizes richness and finesse. Aged for 30 months in French oak tonneaux and an additional 12 months in the bottle, it boasts a complex bouquet of ripe red fruits, vanilla, licorice, and spices, underscored by refined tannins and a velvety texture. With a deep ruby hue and an alcohol content of 16%, it pairs exquisitely with truffles, game, aged cheeses, and stews. This limited-production wine embodies the heritage and meticulous craftsmanship of the Castagnole Monferrato terroir, delivering an unforgettable sensory experience.
Process & Profile
Ruchè di Castagnole Monferrato Opera Prima is produced in the Castagnole Monferrato region of Asti, where the unique clay and tuff soils of the famed Bricco della Gioia vineyard create the perfect environment for exceptional wine. Made entirely from Ruchè grapes, the vines are aged 20 years and cultivated using sustainable practices. The wine undergoes alcoholic and malolactic fermentation in stainless steel, followed by 30 months of aging in 500-liter French oak tonneaux and an additional 12 months of refinement in the bottle. This intricate process results in a wine of immense depth, structure, and character, with an alcohol content of 16% and less than 1 g/l of residual sugar.Tasting Notes
This Ruch√® astonishes with a vivid ruby-red hue, enhanced by garnet and cardinal reflections. Its bouquet is a captivating blend of ripe red fruits—such as plums and blackberries—interwoven with floral hints of rose petals and violets. Tertiary aromas of menthol, sweet tobacco, and fine spices add complexity. On the palate, it is powerful yet refined, with vibrant acidity, soft tannins, and a long, harmonious finish that balances fruit and elegant oak nuances.What Makes It Special
- Rare Aromatic Red Grape: Ruchè is one of Italy's rarest red varieties, celebrated for its unique floral and aromatic character.
- Exceptional Terroir: Originating from the meticulously tended Bricco della Gioia vineyard, the wine reflects the perfect marriage of soil, climate, and craftsmanship.
- Dedication to Tradition: Opera Prima is a homage to Luca Ferraris' grandfather, blending modern winemaking techniques with family heritage.
- Aging Excellence: Extended aging in French oak and bottle imparts elegance, finesse, and a velvety texture, making it suitable for aging.
How to Enjoy
To fully appreciate Ruchè di Castagnole Monferrato Opera Prima:- Serving Temperature: Serve at 18–20°C to unlock its aromatic complexity.
- Pairing Suggestions: This wine pairs beautifully with Piedmontese cuisine, such as truffle-infused dishes, game meats, braised roasts, or medium-to-long-aged cheeses. Its floral and spicy notes also complement hearty stews and bold flavors.
- Special Occasions: Ideal for celebrations or intimate gatherings, this wine transforms any moment into a memorable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is special about Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato?
Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato is a rare and exquisite red wine made primarily from the Ruché grape, indigenous to the Piedmont region of Italy. It is celebrated for its aromatic bouquet, featuring floral and spicy notes, alongside red fruit flavors. Its production is highly limited, adding to its exclusivity.
What does the wine taste like?
This wine is medium-bodied with moderate tannins and acidity. Tasting notes often include wild berries, floral aromas such as roses or violets, subtle spices like white pepper, and sometimes herbal undertones. The wine is both harmonious and expressive, offering a dry and flavorful palate with a slightly spicy aftertaste.
What food pairs best with this wine?
Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It complements roasted and stewed meats, game, mature or blue cheeses, and even spicier Asian dishes or tomato-based recipes like Eggplant alla Norma. Truffle risotto is another excellent pairing option.
What is the significance of the DOCG status for this wine?
The DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) classification represents the highest level of quality and authenticity for Italian wines. Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato received this status in 2010, highlighting its exceptional quality and the strict production standards it adheres to. Only wines produced in seven communes in the Asti province can carry this designation.
How is the wine produced?
The Ruché grapes are typically hand-harvested and fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve the vibrant fruit and floral characteristics. Some producers may age the wine in oak barrels to add depth, but many favor steel to emphasize freshness and aromatics.
What is the history of the Ruché grape?
The origins of the Ruché grape remain debated, with theories suggesting it is either native to Piedmont or brought from France centuries ago. It was nearly extinct by the 20th century until Don Giacomo Cauda revitalized its cultivation in the 1960s. His efforts, along with other winemakers, helped secure its status as a DOCG wine and preserve this unique variety.
What makes the terroir of Castagnole Monferrato unique?
The region's terroir is shaped by calcareous clay, sandy soils, and a climate influenced by Mediterranean and Piedmont conditions. Warm days and cool nights ensure optimal ripening while maintaining acidity in the grapes, resulting in wines with remarkable balance and character.
How long can Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato be stored?
Most Ruché wines are best enjoyed young, within 3-5 years of production, to appreciate their fresh and aromatic qualities. However, Riserva versions with oak aging may have greater aging potential due to their complexity and structure.
What is unique about the production size of this wine?
Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato is one of Italy's smallest DOCG productions, with only around 400 acres of vineyards and a limited number of producers. This limited supply enhances its rarity and desirability.
How should Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato be served?
Serve this wine slightly below room temperature, around 16-18°C (60-64°F). Decanting young wines for 30 minutes may enhance its aromatic profile and soften the tannins.
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