Wines Gattinara Bianchi - Monte - 2023

Viniou Reviews

Bianchi's Cuvée Monte 2023 Rosé from the Gattinara DOC in Piedmont is a captivating and refined expression, highlighting the region’s rich winemaking heritage. While Gattinara is predominantly associated with red wines based on Nebbiolo (locally known as Spanna), this dry rosé stands out as a creative interpretation. The wine’s blush hue is obtained through gentle maceration, preserving delicate aromas and a lively, fresh character; it may feature Nebbiolo alongside permitted local varieties, imparting subtle wild berry notes, floral undertones, and a hallmark minerality. The 2023 vintage benefits from the coolness of the preceding winter and a warm but not excessive summer, providing vibrancy and balanced acidity to the wine.

Piémont, nestled in northwestern Italy, is renowned for its rolling vineyard landscapes against the Alps’ dramatic backdrop. The soils here, a mix of ancient volcanic rock, clay, and iron-rich marl, impart a distinctive complexity and finesse to the wines. The region enjoys a marked continental climate with pronounced diurnal shifts, favouring slow ripening and the development of nuanced flavours. Historically, Gattinara was once regarded on par with Barolo and Barbaresco, famed for producing wines of structure and longevity from Nebbiolo. The tradition of rosato (rosé) winemaking, though less widespread, reflects local ingenuity and a desire to showcase terroir through diverse styles.

This dry rosé’s vibrant freshness and subtle savoury edge make it an excellent match for Piedmontese antipasti such as vitello tonnato or insalata di pollo, while its acidity and red berry notes will beautifully complement seafood risottos, grilled river fish or even light tomato-based pasta. For a more traditional pairing, try it alongside local cheeses like robiola or fresh tomini with herbs.

To best appreciate its aromatic precision, serve this Gattinara rosé well-chilled, ideally at 8-10°C. A medium-sized white wine glass will allow the delicate bouquet to unfold, and although delightful in its youth, a brief decanting can further reveal its subtleties.