Colli Tortonesi DOC Timorasso Derthona Late Release 2022 Fontanafredda

What kind of wine it is

Fontanafredda’s Timorasso Derthona Late Release is a white wine from the Colli Tortonesi, made from Timorasso grapes, an ancient native variety cultivated in the Tortona area since the Middle Ages. The “Late Release” designation indicates a longer-matured version, designed to best express this variety’s ability to evolve over time.

Where it comes from

The grapes come from the area around Monleale, characterized by compact clay soils derived from ancient marine deposits and layers of blue marl typical of the Tortonian period. The cool climate, with harsh winters and marked diurnal temperature shifts, promotes the development of elegant aromas, minerality, and a notable capacity to evolve over time.

How it is made

The grapes are hand-harvested in small crates and gently pressed whole to best preserve their character. The must rests for about 24 hours in stainless-steel tanks, where natural settling occurs; the alcoholic fermentation then takes place for about 30 days at a controlled temperature. After racking, the wine ages for about 10 months on the fine lees with periodic bâtonnage, before completing its maturation in bottle.

Tasting notes

In the glass it shows an elegant golden color with bright greenish highlights. The bouquet is rich and aromatic, with aromas of exotic fruit, pear, and apple accompanied by a pronounced mineral imprint; on the palate it is fresh, savory, enveloping, and harmonious, with a balanced, rounded structure and a long persistence leading to a refined, complex finish.

What it pairs with

It pairs with fish dishes and seafood, creamed salt cod, grilled or battered vegetables, tempura preparations, and hard cheeses or blue cheeses.

When to serve it

Thanks to its minerality and savory structure, it is well suited to fish-based meals and occasions when you want a white able to accompany elaborate dishes. Serve at around 10–12 °C, uncorking it shortly before serving to allow the bouquet to fully emerge.