ROTARI | Cuvée 28 | Trento | Brut | #
chardonnay

© We will be evaluating wines in no particular order on no particular schedule. Just stay tuned and you will never miss our reviews. If the wine is tasted more than once, the rating table will be updated so as to reflect all the new impressions and observations. We hope you will enjoy it!

Rotari is a prestigious sparkling wine producer located in the Trento DOC region within Trentino-Alto-Adige in northern Italy, surrounded by the breathtaking Dolomites Mountains. With a dedication to quality and tradition, the winery thrives on the principles of sustainability and respect for nature, utilizing methods that harmonize with the surrounding ecosystem. Known for its emphasis on quality and tradition, Rotari vinifies its sparkling wines only according to the metodo classico, thus paying homage to both, the region’s unique terroir and the exceptional characteristics of chardonnay grape variety. All Rotari wines are classified under the ‘Trentodoc, designation, signifying their adherence to the strict regulations governing this small region.Today we are going to review an intriguing sparkling wine that we were eager to taste for quite some time – Cuvée 28 Trento Brut by Rotari. The wine comes from Trentino-Alto-Adige, which is one of Italy’s most famous wine regions. This exceptional sparkling wine is made exclusively from 100% chardonnay grapes (a sparkling wine style that is called ‘blanc de blancs‘, which translates as ‘white from whites‘) – a variety celebrated for its versatility and ideal for producing premium sparkling wines. The meticulous winemaking process, combined with the influence of the alpine climate and limestone-clay soils, results in an exquisite sparkling wine that highlights its place of origin.

This wine is produced using the authentic méthode traditionelle technique, the same way the famous Champagne wines are made, with second fermentation in the bottle. After the second fermentation in the bottle, the wine has been aged on fine lees (sur lie ageing) for 36 months, which allowed it to develop extra complexity and the much desired creaminess on the palate.

The geographical features of the Trentodoc appellation significantly contribute to each wine’s unique characteristics. The proximity to mountains provide altitude, while the hilly slopes and continental climate allow for a dramatic daily temperature variation (the diurnal range), fostering a long growing season that preserves the natural acidity and the fresh aromatic qualities of the grapes.

The rocky soil composition, rich in limestone, provides excellent drainage and contributes to the mineral backbone that is essential for any sparkling wine of this caliber. Compared to similar wines from other regions, Trentino‘s terroir emphasizes the zesty acidity and the purity of flavors in the grapes, which is synonymous with high-end metodo classico sparkling wines.

color: deep | yellow color
clarity: clear | pastel-yellow hues

In the glass, the wine exhibits a deep yellow color complemented by elegant pastel yellow hues at the rim, suggesting vibrancy and depth. The persistent fine bubbles rise gracefully, teasing the palate with the promise of lasting effervescence.

intensity: rich & yeasty
fruit character: ripe

On the nose, the wine’s olfactory profile is rich and inviting, showcasing yeasty notes reminiscent of bread crust, dark bread, and pastry, along with vibrant aromas of ripe fruits such as quince, pear, and apricot. Underlying these primary aromas are hints of hay, almonds, and cereal, creating a very complex aromatic profile.

sweetness: dry | acidity: high | alcohol: medium+ | tannin: low | balance: fine
finish: long | aftertaste: appealingly bitter-seedy

On the palate, the wine reveals a round and ample mouthfeel characterized by its rich and creamy texture. The flavor profile is vibrant and expressive, featuring citrus notes intermingled with green apple and ripe stone fruits. A lively acidity and well-integrated alcoholic warmth balance the dry sweetness hints, leading to a long finish that showcases a pleasantly bitter-seedy aftertaste.

maturity: in its prime | drink now within the next 2-3 years
verdict: great | a must try wine | a wine that has all the traits to become legendary

Overall, this wine is a testament to the artistry of traditional sparkling wine production. Currently at its prime, the wine is ready to be enjoyment today, with potential of aging for 2 or 3 more years to further enhance its complexity. This is a top-notch sparkling wine that encapsulates elegance and finesse, making it one of the most distinguished offerings from the Trentino sub-region.

ROTARI | Cuvée 28 | Trento | Brut | #
variety: chardonnay
country: Italy | Südtirol
region: Trentino-Alto Adige | Trentodoc
rating: 94.7

Taking into account the wine’s complexity, we would recommend pairing it with light seafood dishes, such as grilled scallops or poached lobster. The wine’s crisp acidity and minerality will complement beautifully the delicate flavors of the seafood, while enhancing the overall dining experience through a harmonious balance between the food’s richness of flavours & texture and the wine’s finesse & elegance.

The Rotari winery is located in the heart of the Dolomites, inside a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is the only winery in the world that thrives amidst a protected mountain reservation.

© The WineStatistics ratings are based solely on our own knowledge of the world of wine and on our personal wine tastes, which may, or may not, differ from yours – the reader. Just remember that there are no absolutes of right and wrong in wine appreciation. Cheers!