# Rotari Flavio Riserva (2016)

- **Producer:** Mezzacorona
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €30
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 6–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** peach, pear, apple, brioche, biscuit, hazelnut, pastry, almond, honey

## About this wine

Rotari Flavio Riserva 2016 is a white sparkling wine from the Trentino-Alto Adige region of Italy, produced by Mezzacorona under the Trentodoc appellation. It is a 100% Chardonnay wine made using the traditional method. The wine is named in memory of the Lombard King Rotari, who historically bore the honorary title 'Flavio,' intended to evoke the prestige of the Roman and Byzantine empires. It is considered the flagship and most prestigious expression of Rotari's winemaking style. Mezzacorona is a cooperative founded in 1904, deeply rooted in the Trentino region, emphasizing community, sustainability, and innovation. The grapes are sourced from Rotari's own vineyards in the hilly areas of the Adige Valley, at altitudes ranging from 250 to 800 meters, with soils characterized by a balance of clay and lime. The wine's distinctive qualities are attributed to the combination of its Alpine terroir and meticulous traditional method winemaking.

## Interesting facts

- Named in honor of Lombard King Rotari, who held the title 'Flavio'.
- Aged on lees for at least 36 months, often up to 60 months.
- Sourced from vineyards at altitudes between 250 and 800 meters.
- Represents the most prestigious expression of Rotari's winemaking.

## Food pairing

The wine's elegant acidity cuts through richer elements like butter and cream, while its complexity complements delicate seafood and poultry. The minerality can echo the brininess of shellfish.

## Wine making process

Rotari Flavio Riserva 2016 is produced using the traditional method (Metodo Classico). The first fermentation takes place partly in stainless steel tanks and partly in barriques. Following this, the wine undergoes a second fermentation in the bottle. It is then aged on fine lees for a minimum of 36 months, with some sources indicating up to 60 months for the Flavio Riserva. This extended aging period is crucial for developing the wine's complexity and characteristic aromas. Grapes are hand-selected and hand-harvested at optimal ripeness from vineyards located in the hilly areas of the Adige Valley in Trentino.