The Rossese Grape From Liguria

The winery estate is called Cascina Fèipu dei Massaratti, and it is barely inland from the Ligurian Sea in northwestern Italy. The place was founded in 1965 by Agostino "Pippo" Parodi, who not only had a cool nickname, but he also had a knack for some serious winemaking. He inherited a land full of fruits and vegetables and turned it into a vineyard. The business is now run by his family.

Their 2025 Riviera Ligure di Ponente Rossese is listed as 95% Rossese grapes, and I would wager that the other 5% is Pigato, the other native Ligurian grape in which they specialize. The wine was vinified in steel tanks. I could find no notes on aging, but I would guess that it took place in steel as well. Alcohol hits only 13% abv and my bottle cost $28 at Eataly in Los Angeles.

This wine has a very light ruby color, just a little darker than a rosato. The nose sports aromas of sour cherry, raspberry, and a little vegetal funk. The palate rides a bit on the tart side, showing red fruit and a savory streak of minerality. The tannins are so tame they are almost unnoticeable. Pair this with a rustic tomato sauce pasta, or with a cheese plate. The wine takes a chill nicely, if you need. 

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