Scarpa, 'Rouchet Briccorosa' Monferrato Rosso 2016

Jancis Robinson
"Lustrous mid ruby. Firm, spicy nose with lift. Cherry fruit with a hint of rose petal. The whole is well integrated on the nose. Smokey and inky hints. Succulent red fruit palate and just a suggestion of rose petals. Gorgeous, vibrant acidity and long, sandy tannins on the finish. Long and balanced, but seems much less aromatic than its peers. 17+/20 points. (WS)"

Vinous Rerverie Notes
Scarpa has been producing traditional wines in the Monferrato hills of southeast Piemonte since 1854. But it was Mario Pesce, admired by both Giacosa and Gaja, who made Scarpa’s reputation in the second half of the 20th century. Traditional sometimes means ‘rustic’, but that’s not the case here. A very present gusto della casa (house style) produces elegant wines with arrow-like acidity and well-aged tannins. In the 21st century, Scarpa continues to produce each year small quantities of more than a dozen wines from 10 different grape varieties and to release gradually wines from its ample library of bottles going back to the 1960s. Vineyard: Poderi Bricchi is Scarpa’s 50-hectare estate vineyard area in Castel Rocchero, in the heart of the Monferrato. Tasting Notes: Smells of flowers, iris, chamomile and carnation without ever being intrusive. On the palate a load of very well compacted tannins, lots of vinous fruit, nice acidity. The wine recalls the Piedmontese landscape at every stage of its long journey. Fermentation and aging for at least a year in stainless steel tanks, followed by a minimum of one year (and usually much longer) in bottle before release. A classic "Vino da meditazione" especially good with Gorgonzola or Stilton. Also experiment with aromatic dishes.