Description
History
Founded in 1867 in Canelli, Contratto is one of Italy’s historic Metodo Classico producers. The 140 Special Limited Edition project was created as a celebratory cuvée made exclusively from the 2011 vintage, a harvest that delivered ideal balance, ripeness and structure for extremely long lees ageing. After bottling in 2012, the wine remained on lees for more than 140 months before disgorgement, resulting in a sparkling wine of exceptional elegance, maturity and technical precision. Production was extremely limited, with only around 1800 bottles made worldwide, making this label highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors.
Grape variety
Pinot Noir 90%, Chardonnay 10%
Vinification
The grapes are softly pressed to obtain only the finest free-run juice. Primary fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel, while a small portion of the Chardonnay ages in used oak barrels. Secondary fermentation occurs in bottle according to the traditional method, followed by over 140 months of lees ageing. The wine is released as Pas Dosé, with no sugar added at disgorgement, preserving purity, tension and mineral precision.
Alcohol content
12.5%
Tasting notes
Deep straw yellow with golden reflections and ultra-fine persistent bubbles. Aromas of candied fruit, honey, dried apricot, toasted hazelnut, bread crust and fine pastry emerge alongside citrus and mineral nuances. On the palate it is deep, creamy and vibrant, with lively acidity, remarkable salinity and an exceptionally long finish marked by spice, fine toastiness and saline character.
Food pairings
Perfect with oysters, caviar, shellfish, raw seafood, lobster and contemporary gourmet cuisine. Thanks to its structure and extensive lees ageing, it also pairs beautifully with refined risottos, noble poultry, aged cheeses and white truffle dishes. Outstanding on its own as a contemplative sparkling wine.
