Could Romato be your next Rosé obsession?

Romato in Italian means “copper.” As its name hints, this wine has a stunning golden hue, making it a sort of white and Rosé wine hybrid.

Romato originates from the northeastern province of Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy. The process begins with the Pinot Grigio grapes and macerating with their skins, then aging to develop rich flavor profiles while imparting an exquisite coppery hue.

Unfortunately, I did not get to taste the authentic Romato in Italy; however, I was fortunate enough to discover Romato-style Pinot Gris from Robert Sinskey Vineyards in Napa Valley, CA.

RSV’s Orgia is 100% Pinot Gris, organically farmed from their Three Amigos Vineyard. While 30% of the fruit is fermented on the skins in old French oak barrels to extract flavor, tannin, and color, the remaining fruit is gently whole-cluster pressed and cold-fermented in stainless tanks to maintain its brightness and aromatics. The wine is aged for nearly four years before they are released.

The result is a visual and gustation triumph!

The color of this wine reminds me of the setting sunset in Paris. Its citrine glow is almost magical, instilling excitement as if you have just discovered a lost treasure.

On the nose, Orgia imparts scents of stone fruit, citrus rind, and a hint of white flowers. When the wine hits your palate, you instantly taste all the care and thoughts that went into making this wine.

In contrast to typical white and Rosé wines, the mouthfeel of Orgia is decadent. Acidity is present, but that is not the first thing you notice. Notes of citrus, dried apricots, and a hint of cinnamon and arugula flourish on your taste buds, followed by structured acidity.

Orgia is a versatile wine that can easily pair well with poached fish, salads, and grilled meats.