Banfi Rosa Regale Brachetto d’Acqui DOCG 2017 187ml

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1978 by the Mariani family, Banfi is a renowned Italian winery with estates in both Tuscany and Piedmont. While initially celebrated for its Brunello di Montalcino, Banfi expanded its vision to Piedmont in the early 1990s, aiming to revive the region’s sparkling wine tradition. Collaborating with other producers, Banfi played a pivotal role in establishing the Alta Langa DOCG in 2008. The Cuvée Aurora line, introduced in 1997, embodies Banfi’s commitment to quality and innovation in Metodo Classico sparkling wines.

Producer and Winemaker

Banfi’s winemaking philosophy combines tradition with modern techniques. The production of Rosa Regale Brachetto d’Acqui is overseen by a dedicated team in Piedmont, focusing on meticulous grape selection and adherence to the Charmat method. The winery emphasizes sustainability and precision in both vineyard management and cellar practices to produce elegant and expressive sparkling wines.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The grapes for Rosa Regale are sourced from vineyards in the Acqui Terme area of Piedmont. This region benefits from a continental climate, characterized by warm days and cool nights, which enhances the aromatic profile and acidity of the grapes. The soils are predominantly rocky and calcareous with tufaceous marl, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the wine’s minerality and freshness.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The Brachetto grapes undergo cold maceration followed by soft pressing to extract the typical intense aromas and characteristic light ruby red color. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks using the Charmat method, with brief skin contact, filtration, and storage at 32°F. Secondary fermentation in stainless-steel vats and isobaric bottling complete the process.

Tasting Notes

Rosa Regale 2017 presents a light ruby red color with a lively and persistent perlage. The bouquet is aromatic with hints of raspberries, strawberries, and rose petals. On the palate, it offers fresh raspberry flavors with crisp acidity, enticing the palate with an initial softness that graduates to a clean and dry finish.

Food & Wine Pairing

This sparkling red wine pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including seafood, cheeses, spicy fare, and chocolate. Its sweet and aromatic profile complements fresh strawberries, fruit salads, fruit pies, and small pastries. It also serves as an excellent aperitif, stimulating the palate before a meal.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve Rosa Regale 2017 chilled at a temperature of 6–8°C (43–46°F) to accentuate its vibrant acidity and aromatic profile. Use medium-sized sparkling wine glasses to concentrate the aromas and deliver the wine to the appropriate areas of the palate. No decanting is necessary; however, allowing the wine to rest for a few minutes after opening can enhance its expressive qualities.

Storage and Aging Potential

While designed for immediate enjoyment, this wine can be stored under optimal conditions—cool, dark, and with consistent humidity—for up to 2–3 years. Over time, it may develop additional complexity, with tertiary notes of dried fruits emerging. Regular monitoring is advised to enjoy the wine at its peak freshness.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• Brachetto d’Acqui: 100%

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

7.0%