2021 Laura Aschero Rossese Riviera Ligure di Ponente

100% Rossese, farmed organically  and hand harvested from terraced, coastal vineyards. 4-day fermentation in stainless then racked and pressed with the horizontal low pressure press for gentle extraction; bottled with minimal added So2.  12.5% alcohol.

Although Rossese probably came to Liguria from the south of France, it is now considered the most important native red varietal of Liguria, but it is nearly impossible to find outside of the region.  The grape produces bright and fresh red wines that are closer to rosé than red in style and body.  Laura’s Rossese is a translucent ruby in the glass, and on the palate, light, bright, tart and herbal, with practically non-existent tannins and pretty cherry, wild strawberry , smoke and spice that feels almost watered down (in a pleasant, easy way) by salt spray.  This is the perfect red pairing for fish! Serve slightly chilled. 

A small family-run company that produces less than 6,000 cases of fine wine from Liguria annually, including Vermentino, Pigato and Rossese, the estate of Laura Aschero began its winemaking activities as a hobby in 1980, planting vines to the family-owned land that had formerly been used for other types of crops. Laura Aschero started the winery upon the advice of a friend who claimed that she had the perfect land for growing grapes. Since her passing in 2009, her son has continued her successful  venture with great passion and dedication. The winery is based in Pontedassio, in the hills above Imperia, and its vines are situated at approximately 150 meters above sea level on year-round sun-kissed hills, enjoying the ideal temperature and terrain for cultivating vines and maturing grapes. The wine cellar, situated in an ancient palace under the Piazza del Paese, has been completely renovated and today has modern and efficient wine-producing facilities.