2002 Torti Pinot Nero Bianco

I met Dino and Patrizia Torti, a dynamic Father-Daughter winemaking team, at their winery in the hills of Oltrepo Pavese about 45 miles south of Milano. Pinot Noir or Pinot Nero in Italian has been used in Lombardia in the making of methode champenoise sparkling wines dating back into the 19th century, but only recently has there been a movement for the production of red wines. That might seem an odd introduction for a white wine but this one is made from red grapes! Pinot Noir vinified white (no skin contact), but wow what flavor! Bold, penetrating Pinot fruit explodes from the glass with full-bodied richness on a mineral-laden palate. Outstanding wine for aperitif, fish or pasta!