The 2002 vintage of L’Ardì Dolcetto d’Acqui DOC, produced by the Vigne Regale winery in Piedmont, Italy will be introduced to the United States market this summer.
The term "L’Ardì" (pronounced "Lar-DEE") in the Piedmontese dialect means "bright and brave" and refers to a fun and adventurous young man. Fresh and fruity, this wine reflects the traditional style of Dolcetto in the region. Dolcetto d’Acqui is easy to drink and often called Italy’s Beaujolais.
Made from 100% Dolcetto grapes, L’Ardì has an intense ruby red hue that gives way to aromas of fresh fruit including cherries and blackberries. Although Dolcetto is a sweet grape and is often eaten at the table, the wine it produces is quite dry with a clean finish. L’Ardì is best enjoyed young, within 1 or 2 years of the vintage, when the fruit is bold and ripe. When served slightly chilled, L’Ardì is perfect for outdoor barbeques and pairs well with such grilled favorites as chicken with herbs, swordfish and marinated shrimp.
Packaged in an elegant, wide-shouldered bottle with a stylish gold and cranberry red label, L’Ardì will be distributed nationally and retail for around $8.99 for a 750ml size bottle.
Vigne Regali was founded in 1979 by John and Harry Mariani, proprietors of Castello Banfi in Montalcino, Tuscany and Banfi Vintners, America’s leading wine importer. The winery dates back to the mid-18th century, under the name Bruzzone, with an impeccable reputation for producing some of the region’s best sparkling and still wines such as Rosa Regale, Principessa Perlante Gavi and Banfi Brut.
