Merkki: Guido Berlucchi

Grapes: 50% pinot noir, 50% chardonnay, grown exclusively in Berlucchi estate vineyards, many of the high-density plantings.

Yield: Varies between 80-100 quintals per hectare, with a yield in must of 45%.

Vinification: Gentle, gradual pressing, with quality fractioning of the must, and initial fermentation in stainless steel.
A small quantity ferments in oak barriques, where it undergoes malolactic fermentation as well; it matures there sur lie for 6 months. A few hours’ maceration of the pinot noir on the skins (the “rosé of one night” practice) heightens in the wine thecharacteristics and hue of the pinot noir.

Maturation: Assemblage of the cuvée in the spring following harvest, with only wine from that specific vintage. Bottled with a liqueur de triage of 24 g/l sugar and cultured yeasts.

Maturation sur lie for a minimum of 30 months, followed by an additional 3 months following disgorgement.

Style: Brut.

Appearance: Soft, velvety mousse that lingers impressively, a leisurely bead of pinpoint bubbles, and a subtle crown around the rim.

colour: Intense face-powder pink, with slight violet
reflections.

bouquet: Elegant notes of wild strawberry and raspberry, well melded with subtle nuances of yeast and crusty bread. Heady, warm impressions from the brief maceration of pinot noir on the skins during vinification.

palate: Pleasing roundedness, sustained by acidity and
sapidity from the high percentage of pinot noir in the cuvée.
The finish is crisp and not tannic at all.

Food pairing: Delicious complement to charcuterie,
full-flavoured first courses, meats, and even fully aged cheeses; can be at its impressive best when paired with shellfish.

Serving temperature: 8 °C.