ROTARI | Trento | Brut | #
chardonnay

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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 a quite intriguing sparkling wine from Trentino-Alto-Adige, which is one of Italy’s most famous wine regions – Trento Brut by Rotari. This wine is made exclusively from chardonnay grapes (a sparkling wine style that is called ‘blanc de blancs‘, which translates from french as ‘white from whites‘) – a variety celebrated for its versatility that is ideal for producing premium sparkling wines. The meticulous winemaking process, combined with the influence of the alpine climate and limestone-clay soils, resulted in an exquisite cool climate sparkling wine that is able to highlight its place of origin. This wine is produced using the authentic méthode traditionelle technique (or, as it is called in Italy – metodo classico), the same way the famous Champagne wines are made, with second fermentation in the bottle. After the prolonged second fermentation, the wine is then aged on fine lees (sur lie ageing) for 24 months, which allowed it to develop extra complexity and the much desired creaminess on the palate.Trentodoc is one of Italy’s finest traditional method sparkling wines, produced exclusively in Trentino, at the foothills of the Dolomites. Often referred to as the mountain sparkling wine, Trentodoc benefits from high-altitude vineyards, significant diurnal temperature variations and a cool alpine climate, which help preserve the grapes’ natural acidity and freshness. Chardonnay is the dominant grape variety, complemented by Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Meunier. Trentodoc uses the traditional method, with secondary fermentation in the bottle, followed by an extended ageing on fine lees. The Trentodoc wine requires a minimum lees-ageing period of 15 months for non-vintage wines, 24 months for vintage Millesimato and 36 months for Riserva. The finest Trentodoc Riserva wines, are often aged far beyond the minimum requirements, and these are wines capable to deliver immense depth and complexity, making them one of the most refined traditional method sparkling wines, that can stand up against most of the vintage Champagne and Franciacorta wines.

Located at the border with Austria and Switzerland, Trentino-Alto Adige is one of the Italy’s most distinctive wine regions, shaped by its alpine landscape, steep valleys, and strong germanic cultural influences. This cool region has a predominantly continental climate, with cold winters, warm summers, and significant diurnal range. Elevation plays a crucial role in viticulture, with vineyards planted across valley floors and steep mountain slopes, often between 200 and 1,000 m above sea level. Soils are varied, ranging from limestone, dolomite, and porphyry to schist, slate, and alluvial deposits, creating a diverse range of growing conditions. Trentino-Alto Adige is particularly renowned for its aromatic white wines, especially Pinot Grigio, Gewürztraminer, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Bianco, while Pinot Nero, Lagrein, and Schiava are among its most important red varieties. The region is also home to Trentodoc – one of Italy’s most prestigious traditional-method sparkling wine denominations, celebrated for its freshness, precision, and distinctive alpine character.
Trentodoc is a prestigious traditional-method sparkling wine denomination located in the province of Trento, within the mountainous landscape of Trentino. Vineyards are planted along the Adige Valley and its surrounding slopes, generally between 200 and 800 m above sea level, where a continental climate is moderated by alpine influences and the cooling effects of mountain breezes. Warm, sunny days allow grapes to reach optimal ripeness, while cold nights preserve natural acidity and develop aromatic complexity, creating ideal conditions for high-quality sparkling wine production. The region’s soils are highly varied, with limestone, dolomite, porphyry, and alluvial deposits contributing to differences in vineyard expression. Chardonnay is the dominant grape variety, followed by Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, and Pinot Meunier, all of which can be used in the production of Trentodoc sparkling wines. Produced exclusively through the traditional method, with secondary fermentation in the bottle, these wines undergo extended ageing on fine lees, developing fine bubbles, creamy textures, and aromatic sophistication, making them one of Italy’s leading expressions of mountain-grown traditional-method sparkling wines.

color: medium-deep yellow color
clarity: pale pastel-yellow hues

In the glass, this wine displays a medium-deep yellow color, with pale pastel-yellow hues. The persistent fine bubbles rise gracefully, teasing the palate with the promise of lasting effervescence.

intensity: rich & citrusy-fresh
fruit character: ripe

On the nose, the wine reveals a vibrant profile, revealing aromas of green apple, pear, and delicate white flowers. Subtle hints of brioche and toasty notes derived from extended aging on the lees add a layer of depth, while the subtle mineral character derived from the terroir elevates the overall aromatic complexity.

sweetness: dry | acidity: high | alcohol: high  | tannin: low | balance: good
finish: medium+ | aftertaste: refreshingly-crisp

On the palate, the wine feels fresh, zesty and crisp, showcasing a medley of ripe citrus flavors combined with subtle nuances of almond and hazelnut. The mouthfeel is well-balanced and nicely structured, with lively acidity that lingers gracefully, leading to a fresh and invigorating finish.

maturity: in its prime | drink now within the next 2 to 3 years
verdict: fine | highly recommended | a wine of premium quality with good potential

All in all, this wine is in outstanding condition, boasting a perfect harmony between freshness and complexity. Its vibrant acidity indicates that it can gracefully age in the bottle for an additional 2 or 3 years, where it promises to reveal deeper aromatic nuances and enhanced richness.

ROTARI | Trento | Brut | #
variety: chardonnay
country: Italy | Südtirol
region: Trentino-Alto Adige | Trentodoc
rating: 93.9

For an ideal wine tasting experience, consider pairing this wine alongside vongole alla marinara or grilled fish filets. The wine’s crisp acidity and subtle minerality will complement beautifully the delicate flavors of dishes, thus creating a harmonious interplay of flavours and textures.

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.

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