La Spinetta Moscato d'Asti Bricco Quaglia 2023

Region and Vineyards

Bricco Quaglia is a prestigious single-vineyard site within the Moscato d'Asti DOCG, a region known for producing some of the finest aromatic wines in Italy. Located at 300 meters above sea level, the vineyard benefits from a south-facing exposure, maximizing sun exposure to enhance ripeness while maintaining freshness.

The vineyard features calcareous marl soils with sandy characteristics, which contribute to the wine’s minerality and bright aromatics. The vines, averaging 40 years of age, yield naturally low production (5,500 bottles per hectare), ensuring exceptional concentration and quality. The combination of altitude, exposure, and soil composition allows for a perfect balance of natural sweetness, vibrant acidity, and intense aromatics in the final wine.

Winemaking

Crafted from 100% Moscato, the grapes are hand-harvested in early September, ensuring optimal ripeness while preserving acidity. The juice undergoes alcoholic fermentation in temperature-controlled vats, a slow process lasting approximately three months, which allows for a delicate extraction of fruit flavors while maintaining the wine’s natural effervescence.

With an alcohol content of 5.5%, the wine is lightly sparkling, offering a refreshing yet sweet experience. The total acidity of 4.8 g/L ensures that the wine remains lively and well-balanced, preventing it from becoming overly cloying. The result is a fragrant, fresh, and delicately sweet Moscato, crafted with precision and respect for tradition.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Pale straw yellow with a fine, persistent effervescence.
• Aroma: Crisp green apple, honeysuckle, pear, and white flowers, with a delicate touch of citrus zest.
• Palate: Juicy and fresh, featuring ripe peaches, golden pear, and a light caramel sweetness, balanced by refreshing acidity and gentle bubbles.

Did You Know?

Bricco Quaglia holds the distinction of being Italy’s first single-vineyard Moscato d’Asti, a groundbreaking concept when it was introduced. La Spinetta, renowned for its dedication to terroir-driven wines, has established this vineyard as a benchmark for high-quality Moscato, elevating it beyond a simple sweet wine into an elegant and complex expression of the grape.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Fresh fruit tarts – The wine’s floral and fruity notes complement the natural sweetness of berries and citrus.
• Aged Gorgonzola cheese – The contrast between sweetness and blue cheese funk creates a perfect balance.
• Lemon panna cotta – The wine’s effervescence cuts through the creamy richness of the dessert.
• Spicy Asian dishes – Its delicate sweetness and low alcohol provide a cooling contrast to heat and spice.

History of La Spinetta Estate

La Spinetta was founded in 1977 by Giuseppe (Pin) Rivetti in Castagnole delle Lanze, Piedmont. Initially focusing on Moscato d'Asti, the estate rapidly expanded its horizons. In 1989, the Rivetti family introduced their first red wine, Barbera Cà di Pian, followed by a Barbaresco in 1995, which significantly boosted their reputation.

Today, the estate is managed by Giuseppe's sons, Giorgio, Bruno, and Carlo Rivetti, who continue to innovate while respecting traditional winemaking practices. The Rivetti family's dedication to quality and their pioneering spirit have established La Spinetta as a symbol of excellence in the wine world.

Region and Vineyards

La Spinetta's vineyards are primarily located in Piedmont, a region celebrated for its noble grape varieties and prestigious wines. The estate boasts over 165 hectares of vineyards spread across different appellations. The vineyards in Castagnole delle Lanze are particularly noted for their Barbera and Moscato wines, while the vineyards in Neive, Barbaresco, and Grinzane Cavour are famed for their Nebbiolo grapes, the cornerstone of their celebrated Barbaresco and Barolo wines.

The estate's vineyards benefit from a unique terroir characterized by limestone and clay soils, providing an ideal environment for cultivating high-quality grapes. The meticulous vineyard management practices, including sustainable farming and low yields, ensure that the grapes reach optimal ripeness and express the distinct characteristics of their terroir.

Wine Range

La Spinetta produces a diverse range of wines, including Barbaresco, Barolo, Barbera, and Moscato d'Asti. Their Barbaresco and Barolo wines are highly acclaimed for their complexity, elegance, and aging potential. The Barbera d'Alba and Barbera d'Asti wines showcase rich fruit flavors and vibrant acidity. Additionally, La Spinetta's Moscato d'Asti is celebrated for its aromatic intensity and refreshing sweetness.

The estate also produces several single-vineyard wines, such as Barbaresco Gallina, Starderi, and Valeirano, which are highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs. Each wine in their portfolio is a testament to the Rivetti family's commitment to quality and their deep connection to the Piedmont terroir.

Did you know?

La Spinetta's logo, featuring a rhinoceros, is inspired by an artwork by the famous German painter Albrecht Dürer. This distinctive logo symbolizes the estate's strength, resilience, and commitment to quality.