Alta Langa DOCG Pas Dosé Blanc de Noir Vigna Gatinera 84 Mesi Riserva 2015 Fontanafredda

What type of wine it is

Vigna Gatinera Riserva di Fontanafredda is a Metodo Classico Alta Langa, a Blanc de Noir Pas Dosé Brut Nature made from Pinot Nero grapes grown within a single parcel. The vinification process involves fermentation partly in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks and partly in barrique, followed by a long aging on the lees in bottle. This approach gives the wine a structured profile, characterized by pronounced freshness and a creamy mousse that harmoniously blends with the absence of dosage.

Origin

The grapes come from the area of Serralunga d’Alba in Piedmont, grown in a single vineyard reserved for careful and limited production. The vines sink their roots into soils composed of white clays alternating with calcareous sands, a geological structure that gives the glass notable tasting tension. This precise territorial identity is reflected in a vertical and rigorous style, able to enhance the natural elegance of Pinot Nero through a marked acidity and a pleasantly savory and spicy finish.

How it is made

Production begins with the manual harvest of the grapes and gentle pressing, followed by static decantation in temperature-controlled tanks. The subsequent alcoholic fermentation is divided between stainless steel and the use of barriques in the producer’s underground cellars. In full compliance with the Metodo Classico, the wine undergoes a long bottle aging, resting on the lees for many months before a multi-stage disgorgement, and then expresses itself best in its pure Pas Dosé style.

Tasting notes

In the glass, it shows a bright golden colour with green reflections, animated by a very fine, continuous perlage. The nose reveals an intense and layered bouquet, ranging from linden flowers and honey to notes of white pulp fruit, toasted hazelnuts, and inviting bread crust. On the palate, the structure of Pinot Nero stands out, balanced by seductive effervescence and vibrant freshness, leading to a persistent finish marked by elegant savory returns.

Food pairings

An excellent choice for starting a meal as an elegant aperitif, this sparkling wine has the character needed to accompany the whole table with great ease. Its pronounced creaminess on the palate and lack of added sugars allow it to match with richly textured dishes, creating a pleasant contrast with the wine’s freshness. It finds its greatest expression alongside classic Piedmontese cuisine dishes, such as a tasty Vitello Tonnato, to enhance flavors without ever overpowering them.

When to serve

Perfect for sharing moments and structured dinners, it is the ideal bottle for those seeking a dry, rigorous, and broad-tasting sparkling wine. The prolonged contact with the lees calls for unhurried tasting, letting its mature character unveil itself progressively in the glass. Its innate aromatic complexity also makes it particularly suitable for long cellaring, allowing it to evolve over time and deliver balance and impeccable elegance.