Ferrari Perlé Rosé Riserva 2012

Established in 1902, Giulio Ferrari’s eponymous winery has become emblematic of the fine Metodo Classico (Traditional Method) style of sparkling wines from this part of Italy. Trentodoc in Trentino is the first DOC in Italy created specifically for Metodo Classico, and the second in the world after Champagne. This vintage Rosé from its Perlé range, for instance, comprises 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Chardonnay from its vineyards located 300-600m above sea level. It spends 50 months on selected yeast, leading to characteristic notes of ripe currants and wild red fruit. The structure is unmistakably Pinot Noir, and the hint of almonds, brioche and spices brings it together for a taste that’s far more luxurious than the price. $88 from Giorgio-ferrari.com

TRENTINO 2012 VINTAGE REPORT:

• Overall yields in the Northeast Italy were down by 10% to 20% in most areas, which was slightly better than the rest of Italy which suffered up to 30% less yields due to a hot summer and uneven ripening.

• White grapes that were picked by mid-september fared well, under fair weather conditions before some rains arrived at the end of September.

FAMILY IS SUSTAINABILITY. That’s the tagline of the newly launched PFV Prize 2020, created by the association Primum Familiae Vini (PFV). The group of 12 represents some of the most powerful families who are producers of great European wines: Baron Philippe de Rothschild, Famille Hugel, Symington Family Estates and Vega Sicilia among them. The annual award, worth €100,000, will be presented to a family company in any enterprise, not just wine, that exemplifies excellence in sustainability, innovation, craftsmanship and successful transmission from one generation to the next. The timing is no coincidence; they believe that the long-term thinking of family companies will provide the right foundation for longlasting success. Applications close on 30 Oct at www.thepfvprize.com