Pascena Moscadello di Montalcino (2001)

About this wine

Pascena Moscadello di Montalcino is a sweet wine with a deep golden color. It presents aromas of candied fruits, almonds, and white flowers. On the palate, it is full-bodied and concentrated, with a richness from the residual sugar balanced by fresh acidity. The flavors mirror the nose, featuring ripe fruit, honey, and sweet spices. This wine has a long history in Montalcino, dating back to the Renaissance, where it was considered a 'divine' wine dedicated to the 'dames of Paris.'

About the grape

Moscato Bianco, also known as Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains, is one of the oldest grape varieties, cherished for its aromatic qualities. In Montalcino, Tuscany, this grape has been cultivated since the Renaissance, producing the renowned Moscadello di Montalcino. However, the late 19th-century phylloxera epidemic devastated these vineyards, leading to a decline in production. It wasn't until the late 20th century that Moscato Bianco was reintroduced to the region, often using vines from Piedmont. Col d'Orcia's 2001 Pascena Moscadello di Montalcino exemplifies this revival, showcasing the grape's rich history and resilience in the area.

Quick facts

• 🍇 Pascena is a late-harvest wine made from 100% Moscato Bianco grapes, allowing the fruit to dehydrate on the vine, concentrating sugars and flavors.
• 🏞️ The name 'Pascena' refers to the specific vineyard plot where the Moscato Bianco grapes are cultivated, highlighting the wine's unique terroir.
• 🏰 Moscadello di Montalcino, the wine's designation, has historical roots dating back to the Renaissance, when it was considered a 'divine' wine dedicated to the 'dames of Paris.'
• 🌿 Col d'Orcia, the producer of Pascena, is one of the largest certified organic vineyards in Tuscany, emphasizing sustainable and traditional winemaking practices.
• 🍾 The 2001 vintage of Pascena was produced in limited quantities, with only 8,693 bottles of 375ml released, making it a rare and sought-after wine.

Palate profile

Producer

Tenuta Col d'Orcia, meaning "the hill overlooking the Orcia River," is a historic winery located in Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy. The estate's winemaking heritage dates back to at least 1890, when the Franceschi family purchased the property, then known as Fattoria di Sant'Angelo in Colle. In 1973, the Cinzano family, renowned for their vermouth and sparkling wine production, acquired the estate and expanded its vineyards, focusing on producing high-quality Brunello di Montalcino wines. Under the leadership of Count Francesco Marone Cinzano, Col d'Orcia became the largest certified organic vineyard in Tuscany in 2010, emphasizing sustainable and biodynamic farming practices. The estate spans approximately 1,300 acres, with 350 acres dedicated to vineyards, primarily cultivating Sangiovese grapes.