Pignello Spumante Brut
Classic Movie Pairing
Summertime (1955)If an Italian sparkling wine is the perfect summer treat, so is this classic romance starring Katharine Hepburn in an atypical role as a middle-aged schoolteacher who finds love with Rossano Brazzi. Director David Lean insisted on filming on location in Venice to capture the essence of the Floating City, resulting in a stunning travelogue that serves as backdrop for a wistful love affair. Have a glass of Pignello and enjoy a classic Italian escape.
The Wine
If you’re a fan of Prosecco, Italy’s iconic sparkling wine, then you’ve got to try Pignoletto. This delightful bubbly is extremely rare in the U.S., so you’re drinking ahead of the curve. Hailing from Pignoletto (part of the larger Emilia-Romagna region) and talented, third-generation winemaker Daniele Artioli (below), Pignello is slightly drier than Prosecco, making it super-refreshing and food-friendly. You’re in for an effervescent stream of bubbles, plus delicate floral, orchard fruit, and citrus characters.
The Grape
Pignoletto’s sparkling wines are crafted from a white grape called Grechetto Gentile. Confusingly, locals often refer to Grechetto Gentile as Pignoletto because the small, tight grape clusters resemble pigna (pinecones). As you can imagine, the region’s winemakers didn’t like it when producers from other areas referred to their Grechetto Gentile wines as Pignoletto. Therefore, they had the region officially demarcated in 2014, and now only wines made in the Pignoletto DOP can use its name.
The Winemaker
Daniele Artioli’s family has owned vineyards and supplied grapes to the local Cantina di Carpi e Sorbara cooperative since the 1940s. As a boy, Daniele loved to help tend the vines and deliver grapes to the co-op. Inspired by this passion, Daniele received his degree in Viticulture and Oenology from the University of Bologna before joining the co-op and becoming its head winemaker.
With Food
Daniele prides himself on making “easy-drinking wines that are perfect for all social occasions,” and he’s definitely succeeded here. His bubbly will shine as an aperitivo or when served with hors d’oeuvres like crostini. It’ll also be delicious with light salads, a summer veggie frittata, or creamy risottos. It’s a versatile and food-friendly fizz, so feel free to experiment!
What's Not to Love?
TCM Wine Club brings the magic of movies and wine together - all delivered right to your door. Your first case includes 12 delicious wines from around the world expertly paired with the classic films you love on TCM. Plus, enjoy our 3 BONUS CLASSIC MOVIE WINES!