From: Emilia-Romagna, Italy
Varietal: Malvasia
Taste: On the nose, it reveals a captivating bouquet of ripe apricots, honey, and floral notes, particularly orange blossom. The palate is greeted with a harmonious balance of sweetness and acidity, leading to flavors of candied fruits, honey, and a hint of almond, which linger pleasantly in a long, satisfying finish.
Pairing: When it comes to food pairings, this Malvasia is versatile. Its sweetness and acidity make it an ideal match for rich and creamy desserts like panna cotta or tiramisu, where it complements the sweetness while cutting through the richness. For a savory contrast, pair it with blue cheeses like Gorgonzola or Stilton, where its sweetness balances the saltiness and intensity of the cheese. Additionally, it can be an exquisite companion to spicy Asian dishes, offering a refreshing counterpoint to the heat. This wine is also delightful when enjoyed on its own as a meditative after-dinner drink, allowing its complex flavors to be savored fully.
About. Il Negrese, renowned for its exceptional wines, is situated in Colli Piacentini region within Emilia-Romagna, Italy. This area is known for its rich wine-producing heritage, dating back to the seventh century BC, making it one of Italy's oldest wine regions. Emilia-Romagna, characterized by its fertile landscape, extends across a significant portion of northern Italy, flanked by regions like Tuscany, Lombardy, Veneto, and the Adriatic Sea. It's unique in being the only Italian region with coasts on the peninsula's east and west sides.
Matteo Braga is the passionate winemaker and driving force behind Il Negrese Winery. His dedication to the classical art of winemaking is evident in the winery's offerings, which beautifully encapsulate the flavors and aromas of the surrounding Colli Piacentini hills. Braga's expertise and experience have played a pivotal role in winning over a diverse and demanding clientele.
In addition to his winemaking, Matteo Braga also pursued his dream of opening an agritourism venture where the quality of wines is matched with exceptional hospitality. This venture, also named Il Negrese, reflects Braga's commitment to creating an immersive experience that combines the enjoyment of fine wines with the pleasures of local cuisine and comfortable lodging, embodying the essence of a truly authentic country trattoria experience in the Val Tidone hills.
Matteo Braga's journey in the world of winemaking is marked by his authentic passion for creating good, natural, and intriguing wines. His achievements have been recognized by various accolades from esteemed institutions like Gambero Rosso and the Touring Club, further solidifying his status as a distinguished winemaker in the region.
Il Negrese Winery holds a prestigious position in the wine world, offering a selection of four different wines, each receiving high acclaim. The winery is particularly noted for its Malvasia Passito, a sweet wine that ranks among the top wines of Colli Piacentini. In addition to producing acclaimed sweet wines like Malvasia Passito, this region is also known for its variety of sparkling, red, and white wines. The most commonly planted grape varieties in Colli Piacentini include Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Marsanne, which are used in blends or as single-variety wines.
The dessert wines from Il Negrese, such as their Malvasia Passito, are a testament to the winery's commitment to quality and tradition. These wines are typically made from grapes allowed to overripe, concentrating their sugars and flavors, resulting in lusciously sweet and rich wine, well-regarded among connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
