Demand for sparkling wine around the world has been booming for the past few years. The number of people who drink sparkling wine at least monthly rose from 56 to 72 percent between 2019 and 2022, according to a report by IWSR Drinks Market Analysis, with the total number of Americans drinking sparkling wine up 30 percent over the same period. The largest world import markets for sparkling wine are the USA and UK, with the US leading by value, and the UK leading by volume. It’s no secret that sparkling wine has emerged as a growing favorite among wine consumers in our post-pandemic world.
Trending in the Wine World: Sparkling Wine
Looking toward wine trends for 2024, bubbles are forecasted to continue surging as daily drinking wines and aperitifs rather than just for celebration. There are many styles of sparkling wine from regions around the world; and nestled in the northern Italian region of Trentino, there’s a sparkling wine that deserves the spotlight—Trentodoc. This Italian gem is not only a testament to the country’s winemaking prowess but also a sparkling revelation that deserves to be your next wine obsession.
History of Trentodoc
Trentodoc’s history dates back to the early 20th century when Giulio Ferrari, an Italian wine pioneer, decided to embark on a quest to create a sparkling wine that could rival Champagne. Inspired by the region’s terroir, he introduced the classic Champagne method (Metodo Classico) to Trentino’s vineyards.
Ferrari’s dedication and innovation laid the foundation for Trentodoc, and today, it stands as a symbol of Italian sparkling excellence. Trentodoc was awarded DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) status in 1993, cementing its place among Italy’s finest wines.
The Ideal Growing Environment
Nestled in the dramatic landscapes of the Trentino region in Northern Italy, Trentodoc’s vineyards benefit from a unique microclimate. The Trentino region has a warm continental climate, however, its high-altitude vineyards and the cooling influence of the nearby mountain air, provide the ideal conditions for cultivating Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Blanc grapes. The vineyards enjoy warm days and cool nights, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly and maintain the acidity necessary for sparkling wine.
The soils along the hillsides and steep slopes are stony with poor nutrients, providing good drainage, further contributing the the grapes’ slow, steady growth and lending to increased flavor intensity.
Grape Varieties
Trentodoc predominantly features three grape varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Blanc. Each grape variety makes the final wine more than the sum of its parts:
- Chardonnay contributes elegance and finesse
- Pinot Noir adds structure and complexity
- Pinot Blanc brings freshness and aromatic nuances
Winemaking
Trentodoc’s winemaking method closely mirrors the traditional Champagne method. After the primary fermentation, the base wine undergoes a secondary fermentation in the bottle, where it develops its effervescence naturally. The wines then rest on their lees for a minimum of 15 months, but often exceeding 24 months, or even up to a decade for prestigious cuvées. This process imparts autolytic characteristics of brioche, depth, richness, and complexity to Trentodoc wines.
Fun Facts:
- The Trentodoc logo that was created in 2007 includes two Os that are designed to be reminiscent of the riddling process.
- 80% of Trentodoc wines are sold in Italy
- Growers determine the picking date by the grape’s level of acidity—they aim for a pH of 3.2
- It was the first Italian traditional sparkling wine to achieve DOC status
- Trentodoc was awarded 62 medals (26 gold & 36 silver) in the 2023 edition of the Champagne and Sparkling Wine World Championships
Trentodoc Style & Flavor Profile
Trentodoc is known for its crisp, refreshing acidity and delicate bubbles. The extended lees aging imbues the wine with a creamy texture and a remarkable depth of flavor. Expect aromas of green apples, citrus zest, white flowers, and brioche. On the palate, Trentodoc offers a harmonious balance of fruitiness, minerality, and a lingering, elegant finish.
Producers to Explore
TrentoDOC is the consortium that brings together many top Trentodoc producers, ensuring quality and authenticity across the board. Several renowned producers have contributed to Trentodoc’s rising reputation, and they all share one common attribute: premium quality.
Here are a few notable ones to keep an eye out for:
- Ferrari: The pioneering house founded by Giulio Ferrari continues to produce exceptional Trentodoc wines, including their flagship Ferrari Perle and Giulio Ferrari Riserva.
- Cavit: A cooperative of growers, Cavit produces a range of Trentodoc wines, known for their consistency and quality.
- Rotari: Known for its commitment to sustainable viticulture, Rotari offers a diverse selection of Trentodoc wines that capture the essence of the region.
Trentodoc is Italy’s best-kept sparkling wine secret, offering a unique combination of history, terroir, and craftsmanship. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just beginning to explore the world of sparkling wines, Trentodoc is a wine that should not be overlooked. Raise a glass to this Italian masterpiece and savor its elegance, one sip at a time. Cheers!
Images from Trentodoc