Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato d.o.c.g. LIMPRONTA - Family Selection - Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato d.o.c.g. LACCENTO - Bricco Montalbera Selection - Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato d.o.c.g. LA TRADIZIONE - Barbera d’Asti d.o.c.g. LA RIBELLE - Barbera d’Asti d.o.c.g. LEQUILIBRIO - Barbera del Monferrato d.o.c. LA BRIOSA - Sparkling - Grignolino d’Asti d.o.c. GRIGN� - CALYPSOS - White Wine - Bollicine ROSEUS - Bollicine LEYKOS - GRAPPA di Ruché - PASSITO di Ruché Laccento 130 hectares in a single lot
Italy
Piedmont
Moscato d’Asti d.o.c.g. SAN CARLO
Barolo d.o.c.g. LEVOLUZIONE
15 hectares in a single lot
2 hectares (1.5 on the Cannubi slope - 0.5 on the La Morra slope)
The origins The Montalbera Wine Estate came into being at the beginning of the 20th century in an area covering parts of the municipalities of Grana, Castagnole Monferrato and Montemagno in the territory of the former Duchy of Montferrat, land of great expectations and promise. While it is difficult to trace the origins of this name it almost certainly refers to the characteristic wooded landscape and gentle hills which surround the estate. Around the mid-nineteen-eighties, the Enrico Riccardo Morando family, owners of the winery, started out on a policy of expansion, still in progress today, by acquiring neighbouring land and planting new vineyards, predominantly with the Ruché grape.
Our philosophy Today Montalbera ranks amongst the most technologically advanced wineries in the world, it interprets with wisdom the “fruit” which the earth offers up in full respect of the local traditions going back a thousand years. The result of the winery's growth allows us to state without exaggeration that roughly 55% of the Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato and roughly 12% of the Grignolino d'Asti “produced in the world” “springs forth” from the Montalbera di Castagnole wine cellars. Today Montalbera consists of two different wineries, the first in Castagnole Monferrato (Monferrato) of ONEHUNDREDTHIRTY hectares in a single lot recognised for its production of the “Red Prince of Monferrato” the indigenous Ruché, the second in Castiglione Tinella (Langhe), at the San Carlo estate, the birthplace of the head of the family, Mr. Enrico Riccardo Morando, of FIFTEEN hectares in a single lot given over to Moscato d'Asti production and other TWO hectares of Barolo Nebbiolo in the area of Castiglione Falletto (Barolo). A rather unusual enterprise in the Piedmontese panorama, straddling, as it does, Monferrato and the Langhe.
Our philosophy of production is of the “wine-fruit”, intensifying the great particularities of the varieties with harvesting of slightly overripe grapes combined with a careful and particular treatment of the vine. “The dream of all those generations of wine men who have gone before us is to obtain from the crop the best grape as fruit possible, to transform it into wine without ruining or altering the patrimony of taste and aroma synthesised by nature within the fruit, to vinify without losing an ounce of its intrinsic goodness”. (Luca Maroni's preface to Le buone pratiche per la vinificazione e conservazione dei vini (Good practice for the vinification and conservation of wines) by Louis Oudart - first edition published in 1877 by the Reale accademia dell'agricoltura di Torino). Whatever the revolutions, the evolution of oenological techniques, whatever the disappearances and rebirths, it should never be forgotten that the symphony of fragrances, the delightfulness of flavours, the miracle of harmonies dictated by a great wine is the recompense of a painstaking work on the vine and in the wine cellar, outstanding talent in harnessing a wine-making science which combines tradition and an innovation alert to the new tastes of the modern, demanding consumer.
The future We will never cease to rejoice at the ever-increasing number of enthusiasts and connoisseurs won over by the delightfulness of the flavours of wines bearing the Montalbera signature. It may be a question of love, but Montalbera wishes to cross borders and acquaint winemakers from all over the world with this indigenous grape. Seeing Ruché on international tables is not only a commercial venture, but an expression of dedication to a wine-making world of outstanding quality... These are the targets we have set ourselves, and whose foundations lie in the hard work of the many who for countless generations have lent their own names, their daily efforts and their origins to these vineyards. For us, all this is passion...
the classics
Area of production: Montalbera Castagnole Monferrato Monferrato, Piedmont. Vine training system: low trained Guyot system with 8-9 buds on the fruiting cane. Grape variety: 100% Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato. Vinification: traditional red method with pomace soaking 10-12 days in the must. Ageing: maturation in stainless steel tanks and subsequently in the bottle positioned horizontally for at least 3 months. Longevity of 3 to 5 years. Colour: medium intensity ruby-red with slight violet reflections when young, tending to garnet after the first years in the bottle. Nose: intense, persistent, aromatic, fruity with hints of rose petals and violets in the first years, developing spicy notes over time. Palate: warm on the palate, harmonious, good body and balance, slightly tannic. Bottle: noble Bordeaux 500 g. UVAG green. Closure: cork 24x45. Sizes available: Matusalem bottle 5 L. bottle 0.75 L. bottle 0,375 L. Analytical data: ABV: from 13 to 14 degrees according to year. Total acidity: 4.6-5.5 g/L. Residual sugar: 3-4 g/L. Dry extract: 28-30 g/L.
RUCHÉ DI CASTAGNOLE MONFERRATO controlled designation of origin guaranteed LA TRADIZIONE Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato, a rare indigenous wine, is produced in a limited area of the Monferrato Astigiano, in only seven localities including and centring on Castagnole Monferrato, which more than any other is blessed by the sun which bathes its hills. The dry, calcareous soil makes this area ideal for the cultivation of this indigenous variety.
There are no reliable records which recall the origin of the name, but the most credible theories have it that Ruché arrived in Piedmont in medieval times, brought from France by monks who planted it around a monastery of which there is no trace today, but which was a holy place dedicated to San Rocco. Some contend that the name derives from “roncet”, an infectious degeneration of the vine which in past times struck all the local grape varieties save for bar one resilient type which would be called Ruché.
From recent studies and thorough analysis of the variety and its organoleptic characteristics, it seems plausible that it has its origins in the ancient vines of Haute Savoie. From time immemorial, it has been unique to the Asti district and is, to all effects, given its centuries-old tradition, an Asti district variety. D.O.C.G. status was bestowed on the wine with its 2010 vintage, this a further recognition of the great qualities of this rare local varietal.
Ruch� d.o.c.g. LA TRADIZIONE, ruby-red in colour with violet reflections when young, and tending towards garnet in the ageing process. Fresh and fleshy with floral hints of rose hip and violet. Harmonious, full-bodied with good structure.
Area of production: Montalbera Castagnole Monferrato Monferrato, Piedmont. Vine training system: low trained Guyot system with 9-10 buds on the fruiting cane. Grape variety: 100% Grignolino. Vinification: traditional red method with partial removal of the seeds after 4-6 days of fermentation (in order to control the entry of the tannins). Ageing: maturation in stainless steel tanks and subsequently in the bottle positioned horizontally for at least 2 months. Longevity no less than 18-24 months. Colour: faint ruby-red with a tendency towards an orangey shade after the first 12 months in the bottle. Nose: flowery and delicate with hints of marasca cherry and hedgerow and delicate exterior of oriental spices. Palate: very fresh and dry, subtle and lingering, slightly tannic, with a refined, pleasantly bitterish aftertaste. Bottle: noble Bordeaux 500 g. UVAG green. Closure: cork 24x45. Sizes available: bottle 0.75 L. Analytical data: ABV: from 12 to 13 degrees according to year. Total acidity: 5.3-5.6 g/L. Residual sugar: 3-4 g/L. Dry extract: 27-29 g/L.
GRIGNOLINO D’ASTI
controlled designation of origin GRIGNÈ Grignolino is one of the great wines characteristic of the historic Piedmontese wine-growing tradition. Its prestige is raised by the relatively small quantities produced. Its unique and charming name almost certainly derives from the word “grignole”, meaning seeds - which this grape produces in abundance.
Historically, its origins, without doubt, are to be found between Asti and Casale, and indeed, even today it is only grown here. Grignolino can boast an array of famous admirers, King Umberto I amongst them; indeed he preferred it to any other wine in his royal dining hall. Grignolino is a wine with a definite and decisive personality, able to charm even the most demanding palates. Served young at room temperature, it goes well with all types of hors d'oeuvres and, particularly, with light or moderately fatty dishes. Excellent served slightly chilled with juicy fish recipes.
It is a wine which brings a smile to the face thanks to its easiness and drinkability, notwithstanding its good body and structure. Grignolino d’Asti d.o.c. GRIGN�, is a faint ruby-red in colour with gracefully fruity and delicately spicy aromas. Highly drinkable, smooth, warm and pleasant with a refined, slightly bitterish aftertaste.
Area of production: Montalbera Castagnole Monferrato Monferrato, Piedmont. Vine training system: low trained Guyot system with 8-9 buds on the fruiting cane. Grape variety: 100% Barbera, harvested slightly overripe direct from vine. Vinification: traditional red method with pomace soaking in must for no fewer than 10 days. Ageing: maturation in stainless steel tanks and subsequently in the bottle positioned horizontally for at least 3 months. Longevity no less than 3 to 5 years. Colour: intense ruby-red. Nose: intense, persistent, strong and characteristic with hints of ripe fruit and jam. Palate: good acidity typical of Barbera, harmonious, with good body and balance, persistent and strong with hints of blueberry, cherry and plum, notes of black pepper and jam. Bottle: noble Bordeaux 500 g. UVAG green. Closure: cork 24x45. Sizes available: bottle 0.75 L. Analytical data: ABV: from 13 to 14 degrees according to year. Total acidity: 5.3-5.6 g/L. Residual sugar: 3-4 g/L. Dry extract: 29-31 g/L.
BARBERA D’ASTI controlled designation of origin guaranteed LA RIBELLE A wine which is representative of the Piedmontese winemaking tradition. While the origins of this variety are unquestionably ancient, the first records we have of it only go back a few centuries. The first written mention of Barbera is in a seventeenth century document conserved in Nizza Monferrato town hall; this notwithstanding the first official record comes from 1798 and the drafting of the first ampelography of the grape
varieties grown in Piedmont. The first to sing Barbera's praises in poetry was Giosu� Carducci who wrote of “generous Barbera”, a wine capable of making those who drank it feel strong. More recently, Cesare Pavese, in one of his many letters, wrote of it being “legendary”. The 2008 vintage saw conferral of D.O.C.G. status on the wine, further recognition of its great qualities.
Montalbera calls its Barbera “LA RIBELLE” to show that it “rebels” against the majority of Barberas on the market today all homogenised under the flag of the “woody concept”. The consumer will find a wine which is extremely elegant, fresh and supple, with the fruity punch only obtained from harvesting slightly overripe grapes coupled with slow maturation in steel vats and then in the bottle.
Barbera d’Asti d.o.c.g. LA RIBELLE, of an intense ruby-red colour, persistent and vigorous with definite hints of blueberry, cherry and plum, notes of black pepper and jam.
Area of production: Montalbera Castagnole Monferrato Monferrato, Piedmont. Vine training system: low trained Guyot system with 10-12 buds on the fruiting cane. Grape variety: 100% Barbera. Vinification: traditional red method with pomace soaking in must for no fewer than 10 days. Refermentation in autoclave for approximately 40 days. Ageing: maturation in stainless steel tanks and subsequently in the bottle positioned vertically for at least 2 months. Longevity no less than 2 to 4 years. Colour: ruby-red to loud violet. Nose: flowery and fruity notes with hints of wild berries and ripe cherries. Palate: fresh and lively, with a good body and soft texture. Bottle: noble Bordeaux 500 g. UVAG green. Closure: cork 24x45. Sizes available: bottle 0.75 L. Analytical data: ABV: from 12.50 to 13.50 degrees according to year. Total acidity: 5.4-5.8 g/L. Residual sugar: 3-4 g/L. Dry extract: 27-29 g/L.
BARBERA DEL MONFERRATO controlled designation of origin LA BRIOSA
Sparkling
While the origins of this variety are unquestionably ancient, the first records we have of it only go back a few centuries.
One may assert with almost total certainty that the name Barbera derives from Vitis Vinifera Montisferratensis, that is vines of Monferrato - with clear origins in the area straddling the Asti Alessandria borders. Sparkling Barbera del Monferrato d.o.c. originated from the ancient habit in the Asti district of producing slightly sparkling wines. From time immemorial, indeed, the most pleasing and drinkable Barberas, unsuitable for ageing, would be bottled prematurely causing fermentation to be completed in the bottle, and thus bestowing on the consumer that typical note of effervescence.
The story goes that in some cases, to enhance the frothiness when the wine was being bottled a grain of wheat would be dropped into the bottle and this would, over time, increase the gas dissolved in the liquid. Whether this be the truth or mere legend, “Sparkling” Barbera del Monferrato has been building on its success with wine enthusiasts for over a quarter of a century thanks to its great freshness, drinkability and suppleness.
It is not “lively”, nor is it sparkling, but rather it is full of BRIO.
Area of production: Montalbera Castiglione Tinella San Carlo estate Langhe, Piedmont. Vine training system: low trained Guyot system with 8-9 buds on the fruiting cane. Grape variety: 100% Moscato. Vinification: white wine method, soft pressing, decanting and storage at regulated temperature. Autoclave fermentation. Ageing: not required. Longevity at least 18-24 months. Colour: golden yellow. Nose: typically characteristic, reminiscent of wisteria and linden, peach and apricot with an exterior of balsamic fragrances. Palate: typical intensity of Muscat varieties with notes of sage and orange blossom. Bottle: albeisa bottle 575 g. UVAG green. Closure: cork 26x45. Sizes available: bottle 0.75 L.
MOSCATO D’ASTI controlled designation of origin guaranteed SAN CARLO
Analytical data: ABV: from 12.50 to 13.50 degrees of which 5.5 actual alcoholic strength. Total acidity: 5.6-6.0 g/L. Residual sugar: 130-150 g/L. Dry extract: 24-26 g/L.
Muscat grape growing is very ancient. Mention is made of it as early as 1200 in the statutes of the town of Canelli. Giovan Battista Croce, a Milanese jeweller who migrated to Turin at the end of the sixteenth century, is considered the father of Moscato d'Asti. In his private cellars he perfected the technique for producing sweet, aromatic wines with a low alcohol content.
Moscato d'Asti has reached extraordinary levels of quality thanks to the spread of modern winemaking technology, in particular that of cold temperatures, which has allowed fruit aromas and flavours in the wine to be preserved, and at the same time, the wine to be stabilised. History, tradition, dedication, application and continuous research keep it precious and unique, highlighting its particularities. Excellent with desserts and as an aperitif accompanied by fresh exotic fruit (the Miami aperitif).
Moscato d'Asti is produced in the second of the Morando wineries, located on the San Carlo estate at Castiglione Tinella in the Langhe (a single plot of 10 hectares set aside for specialist production of Moscato), a land with a vocation for producing the best wines bar none, and also birthplace of the founding father, Mr. Enrico Riccardo Morando. The name San Carlo on the label is also in honour of the small church located near the San Carlo Vineyards right in front of the winery.
The Langhe, unique landscapes where the emotions, jolted, awaken with glimpses of times past and elegant waves of an exquisite sea of land. Cesare Pavese
the trendy
Area of production: Montalbera Castagnole Monferrato Monferrato, Piedmont. Vine training system: low trained Guyot system with 9-10 buds on the fruiting cane. Grape variety: 100% Grignolino. Vinification: innovative rosè method, brief contact of must with marc (approx. 18 hours). Method sparkling Martinotti-Charmat. Innovative and exclusive wine on the vine Grignolino. Ageing: maturation in stainless steel tanks and subsequently in the bottle positioned vertically for at least 6 months. Colour: light pink that turns rose colored after the first 10-12 months in the bottle. Nose: floral and delicate with distinct aromas of strawberry pulp and raspberry. Palate: extremely fresh and dry, subtle and lingering, velvety. Bottle: spumante Collina 750 g. limited edition UVAG color.
BOLLICINE
Closure: composite cork 26x45. Sizes available: bottle 0.75 L.
SPARKLING WINE
Analytical data:
The “bubble” brut ros� signed Montalbera. Conceived for the most discerning palates, fresh, velvety and floral. Bollicine Roseus are obtained by refermenting pure Grignolino d’Asti that has been vinified in a unique and pioneering way.
ABV: from 11.50 to 12.50 degrees according to year. Total acidity: 6.2-6.4 g/L. Residual sugar: 11-15 g/L. Dry extract: 20-23 g/L.
The sparkling wine produced in the autoclave with the method invented by Martinotti (Director of the Royal Oenology Department in Asti in the early 1900s), today known as the Charmat method (lasting more than six months) has given this elegant “brut” features of great seducer of senses, intense and fresh as rose petal picked in the early morning.
Distinct fragrance of strawberry pulp and raspberry. Bollicine Roseus takes on and returns the “challenge” of great Italian sparkling wines worldwide via an oenological revisitation of this native Monferrato wine with an age old tradition. Roseus... from the latin word “pink”.
We like blazing new trails... Those who seek, need not sit by and wait... Those who smile are never bored...
Area of production: Montalbera Castagnole Monferrato Monferrato, Piedmont. Vine training system: low trained Guyot system with 9-10 buds on the fruiting cane. Grape variety: 100% Barbera. Vinification: exclusively with Barbera. Method sparkling MartinottiCharmat. Innovative and exclusive wine on the vine Barbera. Ageing: maturation in stainless steel tanks and subsequently in the bottle positioned vertically for at least 6 months. Colour: pale straw yellow, becoming golden after the first 8-10 months in the bottle. Nose: fine, persistent and intense, with delicate floral notes, distinct hints of white fruit. Palate: excellent “fizz” with good persistence of a delicate crown. Fine, persistent and continuous perlage. Bottle: spumante Collina 750 g. limited edition UVAG color.
BOLLICINE
Closure: composite cork 26x45. Sizes available: bottle 0.75 L.
EXTRA DRY SPARKLING WINE
Analytical data: ABV: from 11.50 to 12.50 degrees according to year. Total acidity: 6.4-7.0 g/L. Residual sugar: 13-18 g/L. Dry extract: 20-23 g/L.
The extra-dry white sparkling wine with the distinctive Montalbera signature. Fresh, velvety and floral... for the most demanding palates. Bollicine Leykos is made by re-fermenting 100% Barbera d’Asti grapes vinified in a unique and innovative manner.
The wine is “sparkled” using the old autoclave method invented by Martinotti (Director of the Royal Oenology Department in Asti in the early 1900s), today known as the Charmat method (lasting more than six months), thereby ensuring an elegant, extra-dry wine with seductive, intense and fresh sensory characteristics, with distinct hints of the persuasive perfumes of green apple and exotic white fruit.
Bollicine Leykos takes up and re-launches the “challenge” of great Italian sparkling white wine production in the international arena by oenologically reviewing and historic grape of Monferrato with century-old traditions. Ley kos... from the greek for “white”.
...Fresh, perfumed, delicate and immediate. Featuring hints of exotic and citrus fruit...
Area of production: Montalbera Castagnole Monferrato Collina del Lago estate Monferrato, Piedmont. Vine training system: low trained Guyot system with 8-9 buds on the fruiting cane. Grape variety: Chardonnay-Sauvignon Viognier in pureness. Vinification: traditional white wine process with soft pressing on the marcs. Ageing: maturation in stainless steel tanks and subsequently in the bottle positioned vertically for at least 2 months. Longevityof not less than 2-4 years. Colour: crystalline straw yellow. Nose: persistent and intense, with typical hints of fresh fruit and evident notes of wild flowers. Palate: soft, harmonious, full-bodied and balanced with a good structure and persistence. Bottle: bordolese Nobile 500 g. semi-white glass. Closure: composite cork 24x45. Sizes available: bottle 0.75 L. bottle 0.375 L. Analytical data: ABV: from 12.50 to 13.50 degrees according to year. Total acidity: 5.3-5.6 g/L. Residual sugar: 3-4 g/L. Dry extract: 25-27 g/L.
WHITE WINE CALYPSOS... timeless inspiration, a “concept” of love. High and profound thought, engaged by all the rivers of poetry, bathed by all the subtle waves of emotion sustained by that vein of madness that takes us all and swings us from the thread of the heart’s sudden throbs.
Words, thoughts, daily inspiration - we can find them all in the persuasive and unique emotional tasting of CALYPSOS. An exceptional “White Wine” created to help everyone relive their emotions and sentiments. The grape varieties chosen for this “hymn” have an international character: Chardonnay, Sauvignon and Viogner. The specific zone divided vineyards of the estate are the ones on the “lake hillside”. Words or popular legends? The creation of a small microclimate thanks to the vicinity of the lake gives these vineyards the characteristic perfumes and structures typical of other countries.
Yet once you taste this “White Wine”, you will begin to smile: the underlying rhythm is CALYPSOS. Montalbera interprets the “concept of quality Piedmont white wine”...successful, since it has everything needed “...to play with its qualitative destiny”. This encourages continual study of the evolution and emotions of attentive and demanding new admirers for the perfumes, sweet palate and emotions that a glass of wine can inspire. Watching it come into being, in a unique bottle, brilliant and fascinating as the wine itself. A jewel of elegance and sophistication, the “finest” in its class.
...And, then, not everyone knows that... It is a sunny, fresh, agile and brisk wine... perhaps even too much so, it flows quickly into just six glasses... but perhaps it is the average time of love...
the selections signed...
Area of production: Montalbera Castagnole Monferrato Monferrato, Piedmont. Vine training system: low trained Guyot system with 7-8 buds on the fruiting cane. Grape variety: 100% Ruché of Castagnole Monferrato. Vinification: traditional red method, coldpreseeping during first few days and short stint of warm post-seeping after fermentation. Total duration in contact with the marc is 12-14 days. Ageing: maturation in barrels made of French oak selected "great réserve" for about 10-14 months depending on the vintage. Refinement in stainless steel tanks for about 2 months and subsequently in the bottle positioned horizontally for at least 6 months. Longevity 7-10 years. Colour: intense ruby-red. Nose: intense, persistent, slightly aromatic with hints of wild berries and morel that evolve into oriental spices and black pepper. Palate: forceful and characteristic mouth feel, long persistence. Bottle: bordolese serie 15 heavy 750 g. limited edition wide shoulders conical color Antikgreen. Closure: cork 26x45. Sizes available: Magnum bottle 1.50 L. bottle 0.75 L.
RUCHÉ DI CASTAGNOLE MONFERRATO controlled designation of origin guaranteed
FAMILY SELECTION
Analytical data: ABV: from 14 to 15 degrees according to year. Total acidity: 4.5-5.2 g/L. Residual sugar: 2.5-3.0 g/L. Dry extract: 32-34 g/L.
A revolution is afoot in the world of wine. Yet one thing remains: an inspiring family passion, a taste for excellence that draws wine lovers together and has always been the operative word in products having the Montalbera signature.
Ruché LIMPRONTA - Family Selection. The purity of our products is absolute and certified. Intense ruby red with hints ranging from eglantine to the rarest of oriental spices. Its mild mouth feel makes it virtuous and attractive, giving sensations that can be enjoyed throughout many years. LIMPRONTA is a seal, the ultimate creation of quality by Montalbera. Annual yield: 5000 bottles, only in the more florid vintages. The harvest of overripe Ruché grapes on the highest Bricchi with the best exposure.
LIMPRONTA is a truly great wine. Intense and honed spice in a flawlessly expressive and persuasive bouquet with few equals this year.
After tracing the “genetic footprint” of Ruché, we had to give additional value to this native vine with a unique production that would delight privileged wine tasters with the exceptional and mysterious harmonies typical of Ruché but enhanced by inestimable oenological and productive expertise and dedication.
An exceptionally fruit-minty wine with expressive, wild lymph. A fantastic, true masterpiece of sensations of the nose with the sweetness of its wild red fruits, minty oak and flawless purity. Oenology and wine-growing of sublime purity and intensity.
Area of production: Bricco Montalbera Castagnole Monferrato Monferrato, Piedmont. Vine training system: low trained Guyot system with 7-8 buds on the fruiting cane. Grape variety: Ruché of Castagnole Monferrato. Old vines more than 25 years. Grape harvest: part in overripe directly in the vineyard (about 95% of the production) and part (about 5%) ahead of optimum ripeness and placed on wood trellises room thermo-conditioned and sterilized. Hectare: 80 q. Vinification: for the part collected in overripen: traditional red method, cold preseeping during first fewdays and brief warm postseeping after fermentation. Total duration in contact with the marc is 12-14 days. Ageing: least 6 months in bottle placed horizontally at a temperature not exceeding 10 degrees for the important presence of sugar. Longevity 6-8 years. Colour: intense ruby red with slight purple reflections in youth, turning garnet after the first few years in the bottle. Nose: intense, extended, slightly aromatic and fruity with aromas typical of wild berries, jam. Palate: warm on the palate, pleasant, rare silkiness. Bottle: bordolese series 15, 750 g. limited edition, wide shoulders, color Antikgreen. Closure: cork 26x45. Sizes available: Matusalem bottle 5 L. Magnum bottle 1.50 L. bottle 0.75 L. Analytical data: ABV: from 13.50 to 15 degrees according to year. Total acidity: 4.6-5.5 g/L. Residual sugar: 5-6 g/L. Dry extract: 31-33 g/L.
RUCHÉ DI CASTAGNOLE MONFERRATO controlled designation of origin guaranteed
BRICCO MONTALBERA SELECTION Nothing is easier than falling in love with Ruché, with its delicate colour, intriguing aromas and smooth elegant mouth feel with world-class taste. It is truly challenging to successfully describe its distinctive and unique characteristics. However, it can be done.
This is how the challenge named LACCENTO was born. By attentively and scrupulously analysing the Estate’s production and the positioning of the best vines, working with modern masterful oenological techniques, and following the best practices of vineyard management, a shrewd dispersion of the grapes during the early summer, wise selection of slightly overripe grapes, with a "small” blend of grapes dried on mats in thermo-sterilized rooms for 40-55 days, depending on the vintage: this gave birth to a wine with remarkable supplesse and elegance. An important wine, persuasive and long-lasting with delicate fragrances - it represents “the other face of Piedmont”.
LACCENTO selection signed Bricco Montalbera, with extraordinary southern exposure at an altitude of approximately 280 m above sea level.
...and then: Ruché di Castagnole Monferrato LACCENTO: a wine of sublime originality. The sheer quantity of flowers and fruit in the bouquet derives from one of the finest and most intense grapes that, so majestically luxuriant and luscious, can be harvested and processed today. Yet harvested with such respect and absolute lucidity that their lively, chlorophyllic breath is retained immaculately in this wine. Chapeau, is a wine that once encountered can never be forgotten, one enjoyed is yet admirably appreciated.
Area of production: Montalbera Vineyards more than 20 years old Castagnole Monferrato Monferrato, Piedmont. Vine training system: low trained Guyot system with 7-8 buds on the fruiting cane. Grape variety: 100% Barbera. Vinification: traditional red wine process with marcs left in contact with the must for no less than 12 days. Ageing: maturing partly in 30 h. barrels and partly selected French oak barrique for about 12-15 months depending on the vintage. Softening in stainless steel tanks for 1 month and subsequent horizontal refinement in the bottle for at least 6 months. Longevity 7-10 years. Colour: intense ruby-red. Nose: intense, persistent, imposing and characteristic with distinct hints of jam, tobacco and tanned leather. Palate: imposing and characteristic to the palate, with the good and balanced acidity typical of Barbera. Silky, soft and harmonious, with an excellent structure and persistence. Bottle: bordolese serie 15 750 g. limited edition broad shoulders conical color Antikgreen. Closure: cork 26x45. Sizes available: Magnum bottle 1.50 L. bottle 0.75 L. Analytical data: ABV: from 13.50 to 15 degrees according to year. Total acidity: 4.6-5.5 g/L. Residual sugar: 3-4 g/L. Dry extract: 32-34 g/L.
BARBERA D’ASTI controlled designation of origin guaranteed
SUPERIOR The 2008 harvest saw the debut of a new Barbera with the Montalbera signature characterised by superior quality and excellence in terms of originality, sensorial characteristics, improved grape ripening and the use of customised vinification techniques.
A precise, attentive and rather special study to find the “old vineyards” with the best exposure on the estate. The grapes were harvested slightly over-ripe to soften the imposing acidity typical of Barbera for a sweeter palate. The characteristics feature of Barbera, nevertheless, certainly appears in the soft and supple tannins in the mouth... for a modern, eclectic, versatile and precious wine. Fundamental, vital aspects for success in a very competitive national and international context.
Renewal means keeping up with the times, never taking anything for granted and living modernity with the knowledge and experience of the past - this why Barbera d’Asti d.o.c.g. LEQUILIBRIO is a wine for today and the future…already outlined by its sensory features as... a minor miracle of truly fabulous persuasiveness and softness in taste...
...that embracing, delicate and smooth plum especially highlights in Barbera d’Asti LEQUILIBRIO. The pure and distinct nose is a peal of wine-making skill. Plum and cherry with soft, supple and fabulous tannin worn like a diamond.
Area of production: Montalbera Castiglione Falletto (Cannubi slope) La Morra, Piedmont. Vine training system: low trained Guyot system with 7 bud on the fruiting cane, each planted with over 5300 plants per hectare. Grape variety: 100% Nebbiolo (kind Michet and Lampia). Vinification: traditional red, with long stay marc with liquid parts, careful repassing over the period of winemaking. Malolactic fermentation in small French oak barrels. Ageing: aged for 38 months of which for more than 30 months in wooden barrels traditional and barriques and then in bottle for 12 months. Colour: intense ruby-red with delicious garnet, maintains a dynamic color that stimulates the drink. Brilliant and characteristic. Nose: vinous, intense and persistent with nutmeg, china root, jam, liquorice and delicious puffs of herbs and spices. Palate: full, generous, harmonious, velvety. Intriguing and aristocratic. Body tannic, elegant, taut and tasty. Bottle: bordolese serie 15 heavy 750 g. limited edition wide shoulders conical color Antikgreen. Closure: cork 26x45. Sizes available: bottle 0.75 L. Analytical data: ABV: from 14 to 15.50 degrees according to year. Total acidity: 5.0-5.6 g/L. Residual sugar: 3-4 g/L. Dry extract: 30-33 g/L.
BAROLO
controlled designation of origin guaranteed
SELECTION The constant development of the Montalbera wineries began over thirty years ago with the purchase of the property in Castagnole Monferrato and continued with the acquisition of some of the best neighbouring land, not to mention the historic winery in Castiglione Tinella, which has always belonged to the family.
In 2007, the opportunity to purchase some beautifully vine-planted land in Castiglione Falletto (Cannubi side) and La Morra, in that Langhe area famous throughout the world for the production of Barolo gave a reason to adding an extra piece to the quality of the wines produced. Putting on the market a Barolo d.o.c.g. representing a modern vision of this extraordinary and ancient Piedmontese wine (modern as the oenological experience signed Montalbera) has been of particular concern for the company.
This is when the name LEVOLUZIONE was born as well as and the desire to offer a wine of absolute and unique tradition, with a closer connection to those grapes it originates from. Careful viticultural methods, selection of grapes and a manic pursuit of quality in wine, helped maintain the quality heritage perfectly intact. Its aging in French oak barriques and traditional barrels for a period of three years gave the wine rare value and diamond precious quality. An elegant and convincing wine that enhances the exceptional product line which is the emblem of the company.
Barolo LEVOLUZIONE, less exuberant but more powerful than other products, intimate and strong as its millennial history. Created and aged to amaze and fascinate, to satisfy experts, fans and followers of this authoritative wine, but also those who fear and oppose all those slightly sharp and inelegant austere excesses of certain wine of the same denomination. ...harmony accomplished between original and innovative, as it was and as it will be.
the “chicche”
Area of production: Montalbera Castagnole Monferrato Monferrato, Piedmont. Vine training system: low trained Guyot system with 7-8 buds on the fruiting cane. Grape variety: 100% Ruché of Castagnole Monferrato, overripe or withered. Vinification: the grapes are dried on trellises in a sterilised room under constantly controlled conditions. Once optimal dehydration is attained, they are separated by hand with a broad comb, followed by vinification in accordance with the ancient techniques for making dessert red wines. Ageing: maturing in selected French oak barrique for at least 12-14 months. Softening in small stainless steel recipients and horizontal refinement in the bottle for at least 6 months. Longevity 7-8 years. Colour: ruby garnet red. Nose: intense, long persistent, with floral notes, hints of jam, black pepper and overripe figs. Palate: very sweet, warm silky and velvety mouth feel. Bottle: Bordolese Nobile UVAG colored glass. Closure: cork 26x45. Sizes available: bottle 0.375 L. Analytical data: ABV: from 14 to 15.50 degrees according to year.
RUCHÉ PASSITO LACCENTO Passito Montalbera is a wine obtained from working Ruché grapes that are extremely healthy and picked overripe in the vineyard. The clusters are skilfully placed on typical lattices inside sterilized and temperaturecontrolled rooms and left to dry for a few months.
During this time the fruit is checked every day to confirm the wholesomeness of the grapes as they wither and only the perfectly intact dried grapes are used to make the wine. When the grapes reach the desired sugar level via dehydration they are removed from the stems manually in order not to ruin the berries pulled from the bunch. The fruit is then softly pressed and the stalks are removed. Lastly the fruit is left to ferment according to the ancient techniques for making passito wines.
LACCENTO Passito is obtained from Ruché grapes grown on Bricco Montalbera, having the best exposure of the entire estate, and then the grapes are carefully dried. The varietal fragrances are enhanced and the sweet taste is increased. Long aging brings out the characteristics of this native wine and allows consumers to fully enjoy its inimitable and extremely attractive aromaticity associated with never-ending sweetness.
Ruby red garnet with hints of jam, black pepper and overripe figs. Annual yield: 1500 selected bottles.
Area of production: Montalbera Castagnole Monferrato Monferrato, Piedmont. Vine training system: marc from vineyards over 20 years old. Grape variety: Ruché of Castagnole Monferrato. Vinification: traditional technique in special vats under vacuum to prevent olfactory elements from being lost; the next distillation is done in discontinuous vapor stills. Ageing: aging in oak carats. Colour: amaranth with lovely golden reflections. Nose: intense, lingering, somewhat aromatic, with violet fragrances. Palate: warm mouth feel, fine and silky, harmonious. Bottle: sabina Quadra heavy 600 g. 500 cl. color white.
GRAPPA DI RUCHÉ
Closure: cork. Packaging: italian pine, hinged and firebranded cover. Sizes available: bottle 0,500 L. Analytical data: ABV: 40 degrees. Serving temperature: 12-14 degrees.
Grappa of Ruché Montalbera is obtained exclusively from our Ruché marc from vineyards more than 20 years old. It is vinified in special tanks in a vacuum so that no olfactory element is lost. The next distillation takes place in discontinuous vapour stills; the marc is delicately pressed to increase extraction of fragrances and aromas of this rare and precious native vine.
This product is distilled slowly an skilfully to allow the volatile components, which create the fragrances, the right amount of evaporation and subsequent condensation in order to maintain intact the precious organoleptic characteristics of the Ruché grapes. A long ret time in oak carats soften the characteristics of youth, giving the final distillate its very own elegance and mildness.
Production is extremely limited, as are the grapes used to make it; its organoleptic characteristics make it inimitable on the worldwide stage of distillates.
Sipping this grappa after a meal is its proper historical usage. However, modern dining customers have started adopting it in the preparation of complex and multi-awarded dishes of haute-cuisine. It can be savoured at any time of the day, also accompanied by high quality cigars.
the cadeaux
MATUSALEM L.5 Ruché LA TRADIZIONE pine wood box.
CASSA nailed pine wood box 6 bottles Ruché LIMPRONTA L.0,75 “Family Selection”.
MATUSALEM L.5 Ruché LACCENTO black alcantara box.
BOTTIGLIA L.0,75 Ruché LACCENTO black alcantara box.
CASSA pine wood box folding lock 6 bottiglie L.0,75.
MAGNUM L.1,50 Ruché LIMPRONTA / LACCENTO / BARBERA LEQUILIBRIO in pine wood box sliding lock.
CASSA walnut wood PRESTIGE folding lock 6 bottles L.0,75.
CASSETTA walnut wood high opening 1 standing bottle L.0,75.
CASSA walnut wood PRESTIGE with sommelier tool set 2 bottles L.0,75.
Societďż˝ Agricola Montalbera s.r.l. Via Montalbera, 1 14030 Castagnole Monferrato (AT) Italy montalbera@montalbera.it www.montalbera.it Montalbera terra del RuchĂŠ
Ph. +39 011.9433311 Fax +39 011.9434289
Drink responsibly.