2024 Tre Monti Albana di Romagna 'Vigna Rocca'

100% sustainable Albana from the single ‘Vigna Rocca’ vineyard in Forlì. Hand harvested and given 2-3 weeks of skin contact. No malolactic fermentation and no oak. 14.4% alcohol.

The winery calls this skin contact wine “a red wine in a white dress” as well as “the most Romagnolo” wine they make. It opens with a burst of candied citrus, green melon and exotic flowers. It displays soft, slightly creamy and round textures neatly offset by a twang of grapefruit and nectarine as hints of confectionary spice and honey add lovely contrast toward the close. Dry, fresh and floral, it finishes with admirable length and a subtle mineral tinge that keeps you thirsting for more.

This 75 acre estate located in the hills of Imola overlooking the Romagna plain specializes in the three local varietals: Albana, Trebbiano, and Sangiovese. The viticulture here is currently sustainable, while the estate is incorporating biodynamic principles more and more. Soil types are mainly sandy clay with small pebbles, which seem to be ideal for producing the crisp mineral white wines that this estate is known for. Cool nights and hot days are ideal for ripening both the Albana and Trebbiano vineyards.

“The heart of the winery lies in the center of the farm estate in Imola, where only estate-grown grapes are vinified. All of the vineyards are managed according the principles of sustainable viticulture, which mandates inter-row cover-cropping and the lowest possible use of chemicals. In addition, recent years have witnessed surprising gains as a result of considering the phases of the moon in relation to certain vineyard management practices (one of the doctrines in biodynamic agriculture), such as hedging, planting new vines, and, in some cases, the harvest itself. The winemaking operations too, watched over painstakingly by the experienced and talented Vittorio Navacchia, are animated by a philosophy of minimal intervention. Every step is carried out with full respect not only for the integrity of the fruit, but above all for the unique character of each growing year, so that Vittorio can ensure that the final wines fully expresses all of the conditions that gave it birth.”

93 points, Wine Enthusiast. "Picture ripe yellow peaches, just sliced, their juices pooling in a bowl beside freshly gathered wildflowers. Wild herbs and dried hay drift through the air, adding countryside feel. The palate brings gentle tannins that dance with warmed lemon and sun-ripened nectarines, while a touch of white flower honey adds sweetness. Bright acidity swoops in at the finish, lifting everything skyward."