Discover Lunaria: First Classic Method Pinot Noir from Oltrepò

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Discover Lunaria, Oltrepò Pavese's first Pinot Nero Metodo Classico, blending tradition and innovation for a sparkling wine that captivates every occasion.

The Art of Sparkling: Lunaria and the Resurgence of Oltrepò Pavese

Unveiling Lunaria: A New Era for Bosco del Sasso

In the picturesque Oltrepò Pavese region, where rolling hills cradle vineyards rich in history, a new gem has emerged from Bosco del Sasso: Lunaria, the first Pinot Nero Metodo Classico. Spearheaded by Manuela Elsa Centinaio, this sparkling wine is a testament to both her heritage and innovative spirit. "With Lunaria, we complete our narrative of Oltrepò Pavese," Centinaio stated during the official launch at Enoteca Regionale della Lombardia. This statement reflects not just ambition but an intimate connection to the land and its vinous traditions.

Crafted with meticulous care, Lunaria boasts a Brut dosage and spends 30 months on its lees, allowing it to develop complexity while retaining a focus on drinkability. This balance is vital; as Michele Zanardo, the enologist at Bosco del Sasso, explains, "The hallmark of great winemaking lies in creating a wine that invites you to pour another glass." The vineyard spans four hectares in Canneto Pavese, nestled between Valle Versa and Valle Scuropasso—a terroir renowned for its robust Pinot Noir.

The name "Lunaria" pays homage to the moon’s ethereal beauty and the plant known as "Moneta del Papa," symbolizing wealth and abundance. Just as these coins shimmered in their time, so does this sparkling wine promise to illuminate any occasion.

The Historical Roots of Oltrepò Pavese

Oltrepò Pavese has long been celebrated for its winemaking heritage, particularly as one of Italy’s foremost regions for Pinot Noir. Historically regarded as a hidden treasure among Italian wine enthusiasts, this area boasts a climate and soil composition ideally suited for producing high-quality sparkling wines.

During the 19th century, Oltrepò became synonymous with quality wine production, largely due to its Metodo Classico techniques brought over from France. However, over time, it faced challenges—market fluctuations and changing consumer preferences led many producers to abandon traditional methods in favor of simpler styles.

Today’s resurgence can be attributed to visionary producers like Bosco del Sasso who are re-establishing the region’s reputation through dedication to craftsmanship and quality. “We’re witnessing a renaissance,” affirms sommelier Roberto Galli. “Wines like Lunaria showcase not just our local grapes but also our cultural identity.”

Craftsmanship Behind Lunaria

Crafting Lunaria is no small feat; it embodies years of expertise coupled with an unwavering commitment to excellence. The meticulous process begins with hand-harvesting ripe Pinot Noir grapes at optimal ripeness—ensuring each cluster expresses its full potential.

Once harvested, the grapes undergo gentle pressing before fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks. This technique preserves the varietal character while allowing for controlled temperature management—critical for developing aromatic profiles without overshadowing the fruit’s natural essence.

Following fermentation, Lunaria undergoes secondary fermentation in-bottle—a defining characteristic of Metodo Classico. As it ages on its lees for 30 months, it develops intricate layers of flavor ranging from crisp apple notes to hints of brioche from yeast autolysis. It’s this careful aging process that imbues Lunaria with depth while maintaining an elegant finish that speaks volumes about its heritage.

Zanardo passionately shares his philosophy: “A great sparkling wine should be like poetry—it tells a story with every sip.” And indeed, each bottle captures not just flavor but also an entire landscape—a vivid snapshot of Oltrepò Pavese.

Pairing Perfection: Lunaria on Your Table

The versatility of Lunaria makes it an ideal companion across various culinary landscapes. As Galli points out, “This sparkling wine shines brilliantly when paired with charcuterie or fresh cheeses.” Its effervescence cuts through richness while complementing flavors harmoniously.

Consider serving Lunaria alongside:

• Salumi: The briny notes juxtapose beautifully against its crisp acidity.
• Fresh or Semi-aged Cheeses: Cheeses such as goat cheese or Fontina resonate well with its fruit-forward character.
• Seafood Dishes: From oysters to grilled fish tacos, its refreshing profile enhances delicate seafood flavors.

Moreover, Lunaria is equally splendid as an aperitif—a prelude to any meal that sets the tone for conviviality and celebration.

The Future of Bosco del Sasso and Oltrepò Pavese

As Bosco del Sasso continues its journey through wine innovation under Manuela Elsa Centinaio’s stewardship, expectations are high. With plans for expanding their offerings beyond Lunaria—including potential organic practices—the future looks promising for both the winery and Oltrepò Pavese at large.

Roberto Allegrini from Enoteca Regionale della Lombardia remarked during the launch event: “This space belongs not only to us but symbolizes what Oltrepò can achieve collectively.” Such sentiments echo across a community eager to reclaim its status within Italy’s prestigious wine landscape.

In conclusion, Lunaria represents more than just a new sparkling wine; it signifies a revival—an exploration into what makes Oltrepò Pavese unique amid global trends. With each glass raised in toast to this exquisite Metodo Classico, we celebrate not only exceptional craftsmanship but also a rich tapestry woven through tradition and innovation in Italian winemaking.

Photo by Risto Stewart on Unsplash