None of us forgets what happened in Romagna those terrible evenings in May when floods destroyed roads, inundated homes, led to the evacuations, and devastated vineyards. But we prefer even more to remember the optimism, strength, and willingness to act of the people of Romagna, just as we want to remember - and emphasise - the achievements made in the winegrowing field.
For us, this wine is the viticultural revelation of the year: the work on the 16 subzones of Romagna Sangiovese is bearing fruit, the wines are increasingly refined and elegant, and the territory is emerging in the best possible way. Trebbiano is the most widely cultivated grape variety by far, and we are convinced it can be a variety to focus on, not only for simpler wines or as a sparkling wine base but also for beautiful vineyard selections. Excellent results are also seen in the Albana, a product of the particular homonymous grape variety, which lends itself to various and fascinating vinifications.
Tre Bicchieri 2024. The best Albana di Romagna
Here, we specifically focus on the Albana di Romagna, of which awarded two excellent expressions with Tre Bicchieri in the Gambero Rosso Vini d'Italia 2024 Guide. One is the 2021 version of Albana Secco Codronchio from Fattoria Monticino Rosso, truly well-made. This pure Albana undergoes ageing in both barrique and steel, presenting on the nose with salty and iodine aromas, notes of white currant, and hints of green lemon. On the palate, it is full-bodied, a white wine with a beautiful acidic backbone, saline, and a prolonged, satisfying finish with hints of aromatic herbs and citrus nuances.
The other is the Albana Secco Vitalba 2022 from Tre Monti, created by Sergio Navacchia in the 1970s: he entrusted the task of enhancing it to his sons Vittorio and David, a goal achieved considering the tastings offered to us in recent years. The Albana Vitalba '22 opens on the nose with a diverse aromatic bouquet featuring floral hints of broom and chamomile, followed by citrusy fruits like citron and quince. On the palate it shows beautiful fullness, excellent dynamism, and a clean, persistent finish.
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