Quarticello Despina Malvasia Pét-Nat 2023

Quarticello is a family-owned organic winery established in 2001 in Montecchio Emilia, located in the heart of Emilia-Romagna's Val d'Enza region. Founded by Roberto Maestri, who purchased a small vineyard in the area called "Quarticello" that gave the estate its name, the winery has grown from a passionate hobby into a respected producer of natural sparkling wines.

Roberto Maestri, armed with a degree in viticulture and enology from the University of Bologna, began bottling his first wines in 2006 after gaining experience in various local cellars. The estate now spans 5 hectares of sandy clay soils with gravel deposits at the foot of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, certified organic since 2015.

Quarticello specializes exclusively in indigenous Emilia-Romagna grape varieties, including Lambrusco Maestri, Lambrusco Salamino, Lambrusco Grasparossa, Malbo Gentile, Malvasia di Candia Aromatica, and Spergola. The winery follows biodynamic principles, avoiding synthetic chemicals and using only copper, sulfur, and organic fertilizers for vine protection and soil health.

The production philosophy centers on traditional Emilian winemaking techniques, with natural bottle fermentation creating the characteristic bubbles. Wines undergo spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts and are bottled unfiltered and unfined with minimal sulfite additions. Roberto's approach respects natural cycles, allowing the authentic character of each grape variety to express the unique terroir.

Quarticello's wines are celebrated for their fresh, vibrant character and food-friendly nature, perfectly embodying the convivial spirit of Emilia-Romagna's rich culinary traditions while maintaining deep respect for sustainable farming practices.

Emilia-Romagna is one of Italy's most dynamic wine regions, stretching across northern Italy from the Adriatic Sea to the Apennine Mountains. This fertile region, famous for Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and prosciutto di Parma, produces exceptional wines that reflect its diverse terroir and ancient winemaking traditions.

The region's viticultural history dates back to Etruscan and Roman times, establishing a foundation for centuries of wine production. Emilia-Romagna's varied landscape encompasses coastal plains, rolling hills, and mountainous terrain, creating distinct microclimates that influence wine character. The soils range from alluvial deposits near rivers to clay-limestone compositions in hillside vineyards.

Lambrusco dominates Emilia-Romagna's wine production, with several DOC appellations including Lambrusco di Sorbara, Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro, and Lambrusco Salamino di Santa Croce. These naturally sparkling red wines, traditionally made using ancestral methods with bottle fermentation, offer refreshing acidity and food-friendly characteristics.

Beyond Lambrusco, the region produces notable wines from indigenous varieties like Sangiovese, Trebbiano, Malvasia, and Pignoletto. The Colli Bolognesi, Colli di Parma, and Romagna Sangiovese appellations showcase the region's diversity.

Modern Emilia-Romagna embraces organic and biodynamic viticulture, with producers focusing on natural winemaking techniques. The region's commitment to sustainability aligns with growing consumer demand for environmentally conscious wines.

Emilia-Romagna wines pair perfectly with the region's renowned cuisine, from traditional tortellini and ragù Bolognese to aged cheeses and cured meats. The region's sparkling wines, particularly pet-nat styles, have gained international recognition among natural wine enthusiasts, positioning Emilia-Romagna as an innovative force in Italian winemaking.