About the Winery:
Contratto was founded in 1867 in Canelli, the heart of a prestigious wine producing area. The company always had a reputation as one of Italy's premier Brut sparkling wine producers.
According to Antonio Galloni, "One of Italy's most historic houses, Contratto was exporting sparkling wines to England and other countries back in the 1920s. After a long period of near obscurity, Contratto has been revitalized by new ownership headed by Giorgio Rivetti of La Spinetta. Rivetti has a huge passion for Champagne," making it a natural fit.
About the Wine:
For England, a sparkling wine initially produced to delight the driest palates in the British market, today is available in two beautiful expressions of Pinot Noir: Blanc de Noir and Rosé. The salmon pink color of For England Rosé reflects its extreme elegance. Its aromas are precise, with hints of citrus peel and marzipan. On the palate it is intense and well-structured, with notes of peach and thyme. The perlage is creamy and persistent.
Vineyard: Bossolasco
100% Pinot Nero
Vinification: Destemming and soft pressing, without pressing the grapes, only the best and most balanced juice from our grapes, the flower must. The must remains briefly in contact with the grape’s skin in order to obtain a light salmon pink color. First fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks followed by about 9 months of aging. Second fermentation followed by at least 36 months on lees. Riddling is done by hand for about 18 days.
Tasting Notes
For England Rose is a nicely dry, delicious wine with red fruits and a color that just hints at rose. A lovely acidity and a great complexity complete the serious and highly enjoyable sparkling wine, that apart from making for a great aperitif, also may accompany many meals.
