Ruchè di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG BAVA

Ruchè di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG from Cantina Bava is a native Piedmontese red wine made exclusively from Ruchè grapes, grown in the heart of the Asti Monferrato region, within a very small, specialised area comprising just a few municipalities, including Castagnole Monferrato. This grape variety, rediscovered and promoted from the 1960s onwards thanks to the foresight of Don Giacomo Cauda, is now one of the most original and distinctive expressions of the Piedmontese wine scene. From a production perspective, Cantina Bava employs winemaking techniques aimed at preserving the varietal aromas. The grapes are harvested at peak ripeness and undergo fermentation with a relatively short maceration on the skins, so as to extract a balanced amount of colouring and tannic compounds without weighing down the wine’s structure. Fermentation concludes without prolonged contact with the pomace and, in keeping with the tradition of the grape variety, no ageing in wood takes place; this choice allows the primary fragrance of the grape and its typical aromatic expression to be preserved directly. The wine is then stabilised and aged in stainless steel and in the bottle, where it further develops its floral bouquet.

Characteristics of this Ruchè di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG

The result is a wine with a ruby red colour that is not overly intense, characterised by a strongly aromatic and distinctive bouquet. On the nose, distinct floral notes of rose and violet stand out, accompanied by spicy undertones reminiscent of white pepper and subtle fruity hints. The aromatic component is one of the main distinctive features of Ruchè and clearly sets it apart from other Piedmontese reds. On the palate, it is dry yet smooth, with sweet, well-integrated tannins, a balanced structure and good length, supported by moderate acidity and an alcohol content that contributes to the sensation of warmth and roundness on the palate.

Recommended food pairings for this Piedmont wine

The Ruchè di Castagnole Monferrato DOCG – Cantina Bava stands out for its intense aromatic profile and its smooth, enveloping structure, characteristics that make it suitable for a wide range of food pairings, though it is best suited to flavourful dishes. Its natural floral and spicy notes, with typical hints of rose, violet and pepper, make it ideal for accompanying traditional Piedmontese cured meats and starters, where the rich, savoury elements are balanced by the wine’s freshness and gentle tannins. It also pairs well with substantial first courses, such as stuffed pasta or pasta with rich sauces, and with white and red meats cooked simply or with a touch of spice. It is particularly effective with medium- and long-aged cheeses, where its smoothness on the palate complements the savoury notes of the cheese, creating a harmonious balance. The ideal serving temperature is generally between 16 and 18 °C.