Rosato from the Ligurian Coast
First I’d like to address the elephant in the room. Yes, this is a Rose, and yes, it is called Serasuolo because no, it is not a Cerasuolo. I did a double take when I first looked at the bottle just for this reason. This also feels like a Taster’s Choice moment…’Honey, this reminds me of when we vacationed on the Ligurian Coast…” Now on to the wine!
From the dramatic coastal hills of Liguria's Colli di Luni appellation comes a rosé that reflects the region's unique intersection of mountains, sea, and tradition. Crafted entirely from 100% Ciliegiolo, a native Italian variety celebrated for its vibrant fruit character, Serasuolo is a brilliant and inviting expression of one of Italy's most distinctive terroirs. This is a grape that I mostly know as a blending grape in Chianti, but it has found a home here in Liguria.
The story begins in 1982, when Pier Luigi Neri inherited a 19th-century home and vineyard overlooking the Gulf of La Spezia near Sarzana. Inspired by their father's vision and committed to preserving the extraordinary Ligurian microclimate, sons Alessandro and Davide converted the estate's vineyards to organic and biodynamic farming in 1994. Their philosophy is simple: "Il vino è passione" — Wine is passion.
Every aspect of farming at Il Monticello is designed to nourish and regenerate the land naturally. No synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides are used. Vineyard work follows biodynamic principles, including compost and field preparations and alignment with the astrological calendar for key agricultural activities.
In the cellar, the winemaking is equally thoughtful. The grapes are gently pressed and destemmed before undergoing fermentation with just 12 hours of skin contact, allowing the wine to develop its beautiful color and aromatic complexity. Extended aging on the lees and maturation in stainless steel preserve freshness while adding texture and depth.
The result is a rosé that is as expressive as its origins. Aromas of black cherry, wild strawberry, and delicate rose petals leap from the glass. On the palate, the wine is fresh, balanced, and effortlessly enjoyable, combining bright fruit with a clean, refreshing finish.
If you can’t make it to Liguria, grab a bottle and a kiddie pool in the back yard. I’m humble enough to say that’s my plan for staying cool this summer.
