2013 Alta Langa Cuvée Aurora Castello Banfi Review And Tasting Notes

The 2013 Alta Langa Cuvée Aurora Castello Banfi is a pleasant wine, not too demanding, a classic example of a classic metodo Classico wine that does not surprise but does not disappoint either. It is in the middle and does not get out of balance.

How is it produced?

It is a blend of 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay. The grapes are harvested by hand, soft pressing with no maceration. The first fermentation takes place in both steel and wood containers. Bottling, then second fermentation ages on the lees for 30 months. Disgorgement, topping up, and then it’s ready for sale.

Organoleptic characteristics

Subtle nose with exotic fruit, endless pineapples, very hidden floral references, and then the classic hints of bread, cotton candy, and pastry due to yeasts. It is not particularly expressive, but what is there is marked with cleanliness.

On the palate, it is quite savory, not too deep, but with an acidity that keeps the sip citrusy and rhythmic. Good evolved-tertiary tones, oxidative and slightly almond, due to the extended rest: consider it is a 2013 vintage that rested for 7 years in the cellar. As soon as it came out, it was pretty rough and citrine, but with time, it improved, even if it lost some of its polish.

Price

19-20 euros. On average, with the other Alta Langa classic method sparkling wines, it is not among the brightest examples in the category.

Food Pairings

Spicy dishes of Chinese cuisine, vegetable curries, aged cheeses, grilled fish, shellfish, roasted white meat, and oysters. Parmigiana ravioli, spaghetti with clams, chicken tikka masala, Chicken Cacciatore, Vitello Tonnato, truffle risotto, pasta alla carbonara.