Made entirely with the Brachetto grape, the 2023 Maté is one of my favorite wines in the Sottimano portfolio. "Simpatico" is the best word to describe it. Brochette has thick skins, low pH and low alcohol. It ferments for three weeks to reveal a fragrant bouquet with strawberry, spiced apple and blueberry. Like Freisa and Pelaverga, Brachetto is especially sensitive to disease and mildew pressure, and that explains why remaining acreage is small. Grignolino, Dolcetto and Barbera were traditionally the moneymakers of this region, especially in the 1970s. It's really nice to see an estate dedicate so much attention to this beautiful little grape. Andrea Sottimano works with whole berry fermentation, limited pump-overs and a few punch-downs because he does not want too much extraction. The purpose is to delicately break the cap. Production is 8,000 bottles.
91 points, Monica Larner, Wine Advocate (Jan 2025)
The 2023 Matè is a gorgeous, crystalline wine. Crushed rose petals, mint, white pepper, star anise and orange peel all grace this exquisite, chiseled red. As usual, strong savory and floral notes are front and center.
90 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous (Oct 2024)
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