Rossese di Dolceacqua Superiore 2019 Cantina Maixei
Rossese di Dolceacqua Superiore by Maixei is produced in the western Ligurian Riviera, in the historic winegrowing areas of the Nervia and Verbone valleys. The vineyards grow on clay-sandy soils rich in stones, low in limestone and with slightly alkaline to acidic pH, conditions that help enhance the finesse and aromatic complexity of Rossese.
The vines are trained using the traditional alberello (bush vine) system, perfectly suited to the steep and rugged landscape. All vineyard operations are carried out manually, and after veraison the grapes undergo a 25–30% thinning to improve concentration and quality.
In the winery, the hand-harvested grapes are processed within hours of picking. After a gentle pressing, fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures around 30 °C using selected yeasts. Maceration lasts 6–8 days, longer than the classic Rossese version, with pump-overs and délestage to enhance colour, structure and aromatic extraction.
Aging and malolactic fermentation take place in stainless steel. The wine is bottled only when it reaches the desired balance and cannot be released before November 1st following the harvest, according to DOC regulations.
In the glass, it shows a bright ruby red colour, gradually evolving into garnet hues with age. The bouquet reveals wild strawberry, rose and dried violet, followed by liquorice and aromatic herbs as it develops.
On the palate it is soft, savoury and velvety, slightly warm, with the distinctive pleasant bitter finish typical of Rossese di Dolceacqua.
It pairs beautifully with aged cheeses, game dishes and traditional Ligurian recipes such as goat and beans.


