From: Liguria, Italy
Varietal: Mataòssu
Taste: On the nose, the wine offers an enticing bouquet of aromatic wild herbs, white flowers (notably honeysuckle), and a touch of salinity, evoking the windswept Ligurian coastline. Subtle notes of ripe pear, lemon zest, and white peach emerge, adding complexity and depth. The palate is lean and bracing, with a refreshing, tangy acidity. Flavors of lemon, white peach, and green apple intermingle, complemented by an underlying minerality and a delicate sea-breeze salinity. The wine's light-to-medium body and crisp, clean finish make it an ideal choice for various food pairings.
Pairing: This vibrant white wine is particularly well-suited to a range of seafood dishes, such as grilled or fried calamari, seared scallops, and shrimp scampi. It also complements salads, light pasta dishes, and dishes featuring citrus or herb-based sauces, such as pesto or salsa verde (see below for recipe). Embrace the flavors of Liguria by pairing the 2021 Punta Crena Vigneto Reine Mataòssu with traditional regional dishes. Fritto misto, a medley of lightly battered and fried seafood, and anchovies prepared in various ways—marinated, stuffed, or baked—will harmonize beautifully with the wine's freshness and salinity. Trofie al pesto, a Ligurian pasta dish featuring twisted pasta, fresh basil pesto, green beans, and potatoes, is another excellent option.
Vegetarian dishes that showcase fresh, light flavors will pair well with the 2021 Punta Crena Vigneto Reine Mataòssu. Consider options such as a Mediterranean-inspired grain salad with lemon vinaigrette, roasted vegetable flatbread with pesto, caprese salad, or a white bean and artichoke salad with fresh herbs. Additionally, the wine's acidity and herbal notes make it a natural companion for dishes featuring goat cheese, asparagus, or zucchini.
Pappardelle With Fresh Ricotta, Squash Blossoms and Basil Oil
By David Tanis
About. Nestled in the picturesque village of Varigotti, the Ruffino family has been cultivating vineyards on terraced hillsides for over 500 years. One of their remarkable creations, the 2021 Punta Crena Vigneto Reine Mataòssu, encapsulates the essence of the Ligurian coast and its rich history. The Ruffino family's dedication to traditional methods and indigenous varietals has resulted in a unique, memorable wine that pairs beautifully with the region's cuisine.
The Windswept Vineyards of Punta Crena
Located within 1200 meters of the Mediterranean Sea, Punta Crena's vineyards benefit from constant sea breezes, which contribute to the health and flavor of the grapes. The Ruffino family's commitment to local varietals such as Mataòssu has produced one-of-a-kind wines that showcase the region's character. The family believes that their role after the harvest is to preserve the integrity of their fruit, allowing it to shine in their light, unpretentious wines.
Liguria's Indigenous Varietals and Wine Scene
Liguria is experiencing a resurgence of interest in its indigenous varietals, with winemakers focusing on Vermentino, Rossese, Sangiovese, and Dolcetto, among others. The region's steep coastal vineyards produce wines with fragrant aromatics and lively freshness. Whites like Vermentino and Pigato boast flavors of wild herbs and citrus with a touch of sea-breeze salinity, while reds from Rossese and other grapes exhibit a brightness that complements both seafood and land-based dishes.
