Recently, I brought up from the cellar of Villa Licata a bottle of Giulio Ferrari Riserva del Fondatore 2002, the flagship cuvée of Ferrari Trento, and one of the finest sparkling wines Italy has to offer. Made from 100% Chardonnay grown in high-altitude vineyards in Trentino, and aged for over ten years on the lees, this wine is a testament to craftsmanship and patience.
The 2002 still shows remarkable vitality in the glass after all these years, with a deep golden hue and an exceptionally fine mousse. The bouquet is intense and layered: dried apricot, brioche, citrus zest, roasted hazelnut, and a hint of white truffle. On the palate, it balances ripeness with freshness, a creamy texture with crisp acidity, and delivers a saline, elegant finish that lingers.
Giulio Ferrari is crafted for moments of class, but it also makes an ideal table companion. Think of vitello tonnato with truffle, grilled langoustines, or a delicate risotto al limone. It also shines alongside creamy cheeses, or even as a gastronomic aperitif.
The bottle I tasted was at a beautiful peak: the mousse lively, the wine layered and perfectly balanced. This is the perfect time to enjoy this vintage, though it can still age gracefully for a few more years, until around 2030. An icon of Italian elegance, with an almost Burgundian depth — a worthy opener or finale for any memorable evening.
Click here to explore all available vintages.
Status: at its peak, with cellaring potential until 2030.
A presto, Salute!
The 2002 still shows remarkable vitality in the glass after all these years, with a deep golden hue and an exceptionally fine mousse. The bouquet is intense and layered: dried apricot, brioche, citrus zest, roasted hazelnut, and a hint of white truffle. On the palate, it balances ripeness with freshness, a creamy texture with crisp acidity, and delivers a saline, elegant finish that lingers.
Giulio Ferrari is crafted for moments of class, but it also makes an ideal table companion. Think of vitello tonnato with truffle, grilled langoustines, or a delicate risotto al limone. It also shines alongside creamy cheeses, or even as a gastronomic aperitif.
The bottle I tasted was at a beautiful peak: the mousse lively, the wine layered and perfectly balanced. This is the perfect time to enjoy this vintage, though it can still age gracefully for a few more years, until around 2030. An icon of Italian elegance, with an almost Burgundian depth — a worthy opener or finale for any memorable evening.
Click here to explore all available vintages.
Status: at its peak, with cellaring potential until 2030.
A presto, Salute!