Castagnole Monferrato Cantina Sociale Castagnole Monferrato 1996
This 1996 vintage is produced by Cantina Sociale Castagnole Monferrato, crafted from a limited production of prized Ruché grapes. Classified as a Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC), the wine originates from the specific terroir of Castagnole Monferrato in northwestern Italy.
Castagnole Monferrato is situated in the Monferrato hills within the Asti province. The vineyards are typically planted at altitudes ranging from 120 to 400 meters above sea level. The area experiences a continental climate with warm summers and cool nights, ensuring a stable ripening period. The soil is predominantly composed of calcareous clay, limestone, and silt. This unique combination of geography, climate, and soil provides the ideal growing conditions for the rare Ruché grape. Historically, this Piedmontese variety was close to disappearing before being successfully revived by local efforts in the second half of the 20th century. The appellation officially achieved its DOC recognition in 1987.
The broader Piedmont region, whose name translates to "at the foot of the mountain," is bordered by the Alps and stands as one of the most prestigious wine-producing areas globally. The landscape is defined by dramatic, steep hills that are frequently wrapped in thick autumn fog, a natural feature that protects the vines and supports a long ripening season. Piedmont is celebrated for its deep focus on terroir and its tradition of passionate winemaking.
Bottled in Italy by Cantina Sociale Castagnole Monferrato, this red wine is presented in a 750 ml bottle with an alcohol content of 13%.
The history of the wine
Below, you can delve into the history of this wine — its producer, grape, area, and region.
Piedmont
Piedmont (which literally means "at the foot of the mountain") is located in northwestern Italy, surrounded by the Alps. It is considered one of the world's absolute most prestigious wine regions. The area is known for small, passionate, family-run wineries and a huge focus on terroir (how the soil and microclimate affect the wine).
Classic characteristics of Piedmont:
The royal wines: This is where the world-famous, complex and expensive red wines Barolo and Barbaresco come from (both made from 100% Nebbiolo).
Everyday heroes: In addition to Nebbiolo, the region is famous for the grapes Barbera (juicy, acidic and incredibly popular) and Dolcetto (dark, soft and fruity).
The white and sweet: Piedmont also makes the crisp white wine Gavi and the famous, lightly sparkling dessert bubbles Moscato d'Asti.
The landscape: Dramatic, steep hills – especially in the Langhe sub-area. The hills are often shrouded in thick morning mist in autumn, which protects the grapes and allows for a long, perfect ripening.
Gastronomy: An absolute mecca for food lovers. The area is world famous for the exclusive white truffles from Alba, hazelnuts and rich, simmered dishes that scream with a glass of local red wine.
When this wine was made, the world looked very different. Here are some of the stories that unfolded while this bottle quietly aged in its cellar.
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How it handles
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Storage
Store the bottle horizontally at 12–14°C and avoid direct sunlight, vibrations, and temperature fluctuations.
Opening
Allow the bottle to stand upright for 24–48 hours before opening to allow sediment to settle. Use a professional corkscrew and open carefully.
Enjoyment
Serve at 17–18°C and be patient – there is a great difference in how and how quickly wines open up when they are aerated.
GUIDE TO THE GOOD WINE EXPERIENCE
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