Apeca Alta Langa, Metodo Classico Brut Blanc de Noirs 2018 (Pinot Noir 60 months yeast aging)

Apeca is a boutique winery dedicated to producing exceptional sparkling wines in Alta Langa, one of Italy’s most prestigious sparkling wine regions. Located in Piedmont, Alta Langa is known for its high-altitude vineyards, cool climate, and limestone-rich soils, all of which contribute to the elegance, complexity, and refined acidity of its wines. Metodo Classico Brut Blanc de Noirs 2018 is crafted exclusively from Pinot Noir, offering richness, depth, and a beautifully structured profile, while remaining fresh and vibrant.

The grapes are hand-harvested from select high-altitude vineyards, where significant temperature variation between day and night enhances acidity and aromatic intensity. After gentle pressing, only the finest juice is used for fermentation in stainless steel to preserve purity. The secondary fermentation takes place in the bottle, following the traditional metodo classico, with extended ageing on the lees for at least 36 months. This long maturation period adds complexity, fine bubbles, and a creamy texture while maintaining freshness and minerality.

Appearance: Bright golden straw with delicate copper reflections, hinting at its Pinot Noir origins. The bead of bubbles is fine and persistent, forming a delicate mousse that lingers on the surface. The clarity and brilliance suggest both precision and refinement, while the slow-moving effervescence hints at the wine’s extended lees ageing.

Aroma: Elegant and layered, with aromas of baked apple, ripe pear, and wild berries. Subtle notes of toasted hazelnut, brioche, and almond add depth, while a touch of citrus zest and wet stone enhances its mineral complexity. As the wine opens, delicate hints of white flowers and honey emerge, adding to its aromatic sophistication.

Taste: Crisp and structured, with flavours of golden apple, white peach, and redcurrant leading the way. The fine bubbles create a creamy mousse, enhancing the wine’s texture and elegance. Layers of toasted bread, roasted almonds, and chalky minerality provide depth, while the bright acidity ensures freshness and balance. A subtle saline note adds an extra dimension, making it both refined and expressive.

Finish: Long and complex, with lingering citrus zest, red berry hints, and a delicate touch of hazelnut. The precise acidity keeps the wine vibrant, while the extended lees ageing contributes to a creamy, rounded finish. A final note of flinty minerality and subtle spice leaves a sophisticated, lasting impression.

Food Pairing:
Seared scallops with truffle butter, where the wine’s acidity cuts through the richness while enhancing the dish’s delicate flavours.
Prosciutto-wrapped figs with aged Parmesan, as the wine’s minerality and fine bubbles balance the salty-sweet contrast of the dish.