2017 Ferraris “Clàsic” Ruchè of Castagnole Monferrato DOCG

A wine that was accurately described as “bold” by the tasters with me that evening.

This wine is fruitier than some other red wines from Piedmont – even other Ruchè wines– with more wood notes appearing as baking spices and vanilla, within the overall hearty wine. It has a big mouthfeel, almost dense on the palate. Slight amounts of caramelize fruits. Fairly high in alcohol (15%) that is nevertheless balanced nicely with acidity and tannin. Pair with tagliatelle, meat-stuffed ravioli, and meatloaf, using butter and olive oil, not tomato sauces.

90 — BSE

WHO: Luca Ferraris

WHAT: 100% ruchè

WHERE: Castagnole Monferrato, Asti, Piedmont, Italy

HOW MUCH: $18-22 (media sample)