More than just a sparkling wine, Mare Santo Rosé is a testament to heritage, innovation, and the profound influence of the Adriatic Sea. Rooted in the rich winemaking traditions of the Goriška Brda region and uniquely refined through an underwater aging process, Mare Santo Rosé offers an unparalleled sensory journey.
A Tale of Terroir and Tradition
The story of Mare Santo begins in the picturesque Goriška Brda, a Slovenian wine region renowned for its rolling hills, fertile soils, and a climate blessed by the convergence of Mediterranean warmth and Alpine freshness. For generations, the vineyards here have yielded exceptional grapes, nurtured by families deeply connected to the land. Mare Santo embodies this legacy, meticulously selecting 100% Pinot Noir grapes from these prime vineyards, ensuring a foundation of quality and character. The dedication to traditional winemaking practices, combined with a spirit of innovation, led to the groundbreaking concept that defines Mare Santo today.
The Revolutionary Journey Beneath the Waves
Drawing inspiration from an old Slovene custom of discovering exceptional flavors in forgotten wine bottles submerged in streams, Mare Santo embarked on a revolutionary aging process. The carefully bottled Rosé is submerged 20 meters beneath the pristine surface of the Adriatic Sea for a full year. This unique underwater cellar provides an environment of unparalleled consistency:
Constant Temperature and Darkness
The stable, cool temperature and perpetual darkness at this depth protect the wine from temperature fluctuations and harmful UV radiation, crucial for preserving its delicate aromas and flavors.
Gentle Sea Currents
The subtle, continuous motion of the sea currents gently agitates the wine, preventing stagnation and contributing to the formation of exceptionally fine and elegant bubbles.
Mineral Infusion
The semi-permeable cork allows for a subtle interaction between the wine and the mineral-rich seawater, imparting unique saline notes and enhancing the wine’s complexity and aromatic profile.
Natural Pressure
The increased pressure at 20 meters results in a slower, more integrated carbonation process, yielding smaller, more persistent bubbles that contribute to a smoother mouthfeel.
Protection from Oxidation
The complete absence of oxygen in the underwater environment ensures optimal preservation, allowing the wine to develop nuanced characteristics over time.
This innovative aging method imbues Mare Santo Rosé with a distinct character, a subtle whisper of the sea that sets it apart from conventionally aged sparkling wines.
A Symphony of Flavors, Perfect Harmony on the Palate
The meticulous grape selection and the transformative underwater aging culminate in a sparkling rosé of exceptional quality and finesse:
Visual Elegance
The wine presents a delicate pink hue with captivating violet reflections, a visual promise of the sensory delight to come.
Aromatic Intrigue
The nose is greeted by a vibrant bouquet of fresh wild berries, ripe cherries, and delicate raspberries, intertwined with subtle hints of sweet almond.
Palate Perfection
On the palate, Mare Santo Rosé offers a refreshing burst of fruitiness, evolving into a harmonious blend of sweet almond and a touch of currant. The signature crispness, balanced by a Brut sugar residue, leads to a long and satisfying finish with a distinctive minerality imparted by its time beneath the sea.
The Art of Pairing: Enhancing Every Culinary Experience
Mare Santo Rosé’s versatility makes it an exceptional partner to a wide array of culinary creations:
As an Aperitif
Its refreshing character makes it a perfect start to any meal or celebration.
With Seafood
Its salinity and crispness beautifully complement the delicate flavors of marinated salmon, fresh Adriatic scampi, and other seafood delicacies.
Light Meats
Pairs elegantly with marinated beef carpaccio or even a lighter cut of T-bone steak.
Pasta Dishes
Enhances the flavors of homemade fresh pasta, especially those featuring seafood or light cream sauces.
Cheese and Charcuterie
A delightful accompaniment to soft, creamy cheeses like brie and camembert, as well as cured meats such as prosciutto and salami.
Fresh Salads
Its bright acidity cuts through the richness of summer salads with berries and goat cheese.
Grilled Vegetables
Complements the smoky notes of grilled asparagus, zucchini, and bell peppers.
Spicy Cuisine
The fruity notes and crispness can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the heat of dishes like prawn curry.
More Than a Wine: An Experience to Cherish
Mare Santo Rosé is more than just a bottle of sparkling wine; it is an experience. Each bottle, bearing the unique patina of its time in the Adriatic, arrives in an exclusive wooden box accompanied by a signed certificate of authenticity, underscoring its exceptional journey and craftsmanship. Opening a bottle of Mare Santo Rosé is an invitation to savor the legacy of a renowned wine region, the innovation of underwater aging, and the pure, elegant flavors born from the heart of the Adriatic. It is a testament to the harmonious relationship between land and sea, tradition and innovation, offering a truly unforgettable taste of the extraordinary.
*Mare Santo Rosé is now available at Uchi Wasi.
