Sottimano 'Mate' Rosso, Piedmont, Italy

Wild strawberry, crushed rose, and a lift of hibiscus define the aromatic charm of 2024 Sottimano Maté Rosso. Crafted entirely from Brachetto grown in the Maté vineyard, this wine reflects Andrea Sottimano’s dedication to preserving the grape’s delicacy through whole berry fermentation and minimal extraction. Produced in limited quantities and bottled without fining or filtration, it embodies the family’s long-standing commitment to purity, tradition, and organic stewardship.

Product Details:

• Owners: Rino Sottimano, Anna Sottimano, Andrea Sottimano, Elena Sottimano, Claudia Sottimano
  
• Winemaker: Andrea Sottimano
  
• Varietal: 100% Brachetto
  
• ABV: 13%
• Farming Practices: Certified organic, indigenous yeasts, no fining or filtration
  
• Fermentation: Whole berry fermentation in stainless steel with limited pump-overs and gentle punch-downs
  
• Aging: 6 months in stainless steel vats
  
• Production: 8,000 bottles
  
• Cellaring Potential: 1 to 5 years

Sensory Description:

2024 Sottimano Maté Rosso is joyful, fragrant, and finely textured. Aromas of crushed strawberry, rose petal, blueberry, and spiced apple rise effortlessly from the glass. On the palate, bright redcurrant, cranberry, and rhubarb glide across a supple frame marked by low tannin and vibrant acidity. Brachetto’s naturally thick skins and low pH contribute freshness and aromatic lift rather than weight, resulting in a wine that is savory, floral, and delicately structured. Fermented for three weeks with whole berries to gently break the cap, the extraction remains intentionally restrained, preserving the fruit's purity and a lively, mouthwatering finish that captures the grape’s distinctive Piedmontese character.

Winemaker's Background:

The Sottimano family has been producing wine since the late 1960s, when Rino Sottimano established the estate with a deep belief in vineyard work as the foundation of quality. Today, Andrea works alongside his father and sisters Elena and Claudia, farming old vines with certified organic practices and a philosophy of minimal intervention. Indigenous yeasts, careful macerations, and restrained cellar work define their approach. While the estate is celebrated for its Barbaresco crus, the Maté vineyard represents Andrea’s devotion to Brachetto, a historically sensitive and often overlooked grape that he champions with precision and respect.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve lightly chilled at 55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit in a medium-sized red wine glass to accentuate its floral aromatics. Pair with goat cheese, charcuterie boards, picnic fare, flatbreads, fresh salads, and delicate cold cuts. Its savory lift and vibrant fruit make it particularly suited to light appetizers and relaxed gatherings.