Contratto 'Pas Dose' Millesimato Spumante, Alta Langa DOCG, Italy

The 2020 Contratto Pas Dosé Millesimato is a superb expression of traditional Italian sparkling wine from the prestigious Alta Langa DOCG. Crafted with precision and care, this vintage combines the finesse of Pinot Noir and the elegance of Chardonnay, reflecting the unique terroir of Piedmont.

Product Details:

• Type: Sparkling Wine
• Varieties: 80% Pinot Noir, 20% Chardonnay
• Vinification: Grapes are manually harvested and selected, cooled before crushing with only the free fall juice used. The wine undergoes first and second fermentations using indigenous yeasts, with a lengthy aging period of at least 48 months on lees in the bottle to enhance complexity and texture.
• Alcohol Content: 12.5%
• pH Level: 3.2
• Acidity: 7 g/l
• Residual Sugar: 0.0 g/l
• Number of Bottles Produced: 140,000 bottles

Sensory Description:

This Millesimato showcases a creamy and rich texture with fine, soft beading. The palate is enveloped in flavors of honey, apricot, sweet almond, and hints of lemon mousse and honeydew, creating a complex and appealing profile. The wine's bright intensity and definition exemplify the highest caliber of sparkling wine, offering an undeniably delicious and memorable experience.

Awards & Accolades:

• James Suckling: 92 Points for the 2020 vintage, highlighting its rich, creamy texture and notes of glazed lemons, candied peaches, and almonds.
• Wine Advocate: 90 Points for the 2020 vintage, appreciating its luminous golden color and soft beading, with flavors of peach, tropical fruit, and baked pear.
• Vinous Media: 90 Points for the 2020 vintage, noting its mix of dried flowers and white smoke, with a palate of saline-infused bubbles and a touch of ginger.

Winemaker's Background:

Founded in 1867, Contratto is one of Italy's oldest producers of Metodo Classico sparkling wine and was the first to produce vintage sparkling wine in Italy. Located in Canelli, Contratto was once the official supplier to the Vatican and the Italian royal family. Today, under the ownership of Giorgio Rivetti and the La Spinetta family, the winery continues to innovate while maintaining a deep respect for tradition. Contratto is renowned for its historic wine cellars, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for its commitment to the quality and integrity of its wines.

Serving Suggestions:

The Contratto Pas Dosé Millesimato is best served chilled, around 8-10°C. It pairs excellently with sophisticated dishes such as caviar, oysters, or a delicate seafood risotto. Its complexity also makes it a perfect companion for celebrations or as an elegant aperitif.

The 2020 Contratto Pas Dosé Millesimato Alta Langa DOCG is not just a sparkling wine; it is a piece of Italian winemaking history, offering a taste experience that is both refined and deeply satisfying.