Costaripa – 2019 Molmenti Valtènesi Rosato

Costaripa – 2019 Molmenti Valtènesi Rosato

A glass of rosé like this 2019 Molmenti by Costaripa really redefines what rosé actually is. Not only is this wine outstanding, Costaripa lives by an entire rose philosophy. They state that their rosé wines are “an antidote to the banality and complications of everyday life”. If that does not show (Italian) passion, what does?

About the Vineyard

With its own microclimate, Valtènesi benefits from soft temperatures and a great diversity of soils. Lake Garda helps with controlling temperatures and humidity, while the mountains protect the vineyards from cold wind. This enables the best conditions to create the perfect blend.

The most popular grape at Costaripa is Groppello, which is used in both their rose and red wines. In addition to Groppello, Marzemino, Sangiovese and Barbera are used in this 2019 Molmenti.

The manual harvest, from the grapes on the 45 year old vines, starts early in the morning in order to keep freshness to the grapes. Molmenti rosé is produced using the saignée method. This means that grapes can “bleed” their juice in a stainless-steel tank. After skin contact for color, tannins and structure, the liquid is released from the tanks without pressing. This is the most luxurious method to create delicate rosé wines. The grape juice is transferred to 440L used casks for the alcoholic fermentation where it rests for two years. After bottling the wine remains in the cellar for another two years in order to evolve.

The winemaking techniques go beyond the average rosé, resulting in a more complex, fuller and refined glass of rosé. This wine requires a dedicated moment to be enjoyed fully.

About the Winery

Costaripa is an Italian family company where high-quality wines are produced since 1936. With the third and fourth generation in the lead, patience and craftsmanship are valued pillars. Costaripa is situated in the center of Valtènesi in Moniga del Garda. It is of high importance that the winery is in harmony with its surroundings, which is archieved by, for example, using natural materials to blend in. Besides creating excellent Rosé wines, sparkling wines by Mattia Vezzola are the source of Costaripa’s success.

About the Wine

Looking at this medium-colored rose wine, the number of different aromas gently appeared. The captivating notes of peach, hazelnut, almond, jasmine and vanilla are inviting to continue to explore. Time is easily forgotten when enjoying the complex scents of the 2019 Molmenti.

On the palette the wine is just as interesting, by also presenting tones of mandarin, cinnamon and cherry. Immediately, the winemaking techniques explain themselves, giving a round body with a pleasant structure. The medium level of acidity blends in perfectly, resulting in a wonderful balanced glass of wine. The long finish adds a complementary, refined, almost herbal, bitterness that is unique in its kind.

Pairing suggestions: Caprese salad, raviolo with burrata with tomato and basil, risotto, but also a grilled vegetable salad with pesto dressing would combine perfectly with the Molmenti. The structured Rose would elevate a creamy burrata and enhance the flavor of basil in caprese, pesto and pasta. All the ingredients for a long, dreamy summer night.

The rosé philosophy at Costaripa is evident from this magnificent glass of wine. The level of complexity it reveals it outstanding and opens a lot of gastronomic doors, especially for vegetarians and pescatarians. Molmenti 2019 shines a different light on Rose wines for all wine lovers and wine professionals.

We award this wine a 95-point DWA score.

If you would like to learn more about Costaripa, and its wines, be sure to check out our earlier article we published after a visit to the winery.

This review is written by our own Marlon Rouw. Costaripa is imported and distributed in the Netherlands by Vinites and available through selected retail and hospitality partners.

Taste Date:     July 2025

Website:         Costaripa