Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
Rivarossa takes its name from a cadastral parcel belonging to the estate. The parcel is characterized as loamy-clayey and suited to its two red varieties, while the 2017 production data describe hilly Eocene-origin marl soils. The vines are trained to Guyot and cordon spur, with a stated yield of 40 q/ha.
Grapes
90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon in the 2017 technical sheet.
Vinification
The grapes are harvested manually during the second and third ten-day periods of September. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are destemmed and fermented separately. Fermentation lasts 10–15 days in large wooden vats at 25 °C. Maceration length and the precise vinification approach are adapted to the phenolic condition of each lot. Malolactic fermentation follows.
Ageing
The wine matures in 225- and 500-liter oak barrels. The descriptive text gives 14 months, whereas the technical-data field gives 15 months. Bottle maturation lasts at least 12 months.
Technical data
The 2017 wine has 13.5% alcohol, 4.6 g/L total acidity and 2.1 g/L residual sugar.
Tasting profile
Bright ruby red. Black cherry and small red fruits lead the aroma, complemented by tobacco, licorice and black pepper. The palate is velvety and balanced, with ripe, elegant tannins. Freshness and acidity animate a lively, spicy finish.
Serving and pairing
Serve at 18 °C. Pair with white-meat main courses, game and aged cheeses. Its elegance and acidity also provide contrast with octopus dishes.
Label / history
A historic estate blend first produced in 1968, Rivarossa is named after its cadastral parcel.
