Wild Arc Farm 'Piquette!' Sparkling Rosato 2021 375ml

Todd and Crystal Cavallo left Brooklyn in the summer of 2016 to try their hand at building sustainable food systems in the Hudson Valley. The couple had limited experience in agriculture, mostly confined to growing tomatoes, peppers, herbs, and hops on city fire escapes, fending off the depredations of spiteful neighborhood squirrels. The fertile Hudson Valley has been a center of New York State's food production for hundreds of years, with a winemaking history to match. Having grown up in northern NYS, Todd and Crystal wanted to show that the granitic soils and Atlantic/Catskills-influenced microclimates of the Hudson Valley can produce world class wines. Beginning with ten acres, this small, biodynamic, permaculture-focused farm is making outstanding wines and ciders from locally sourced apples and grapes as their own vineyards finally begin to come of age.

Piquette is a centuries-old traditional drink enjoyed by farmers and vineyard workers in France and Italy, and is now enjoying a renaissance among winemakers and drinkers alike. It’s made by adding water to grape pomace (the leftover skins, seeds, and stems) and fermenting the remaining sugars. This reuse of byproduct is fantastic from the standpoint of sustainability and also results in a refreshing, fizzy beverage that is lower in alcohol and perfect for al fresco sipping, whether working in the fields and vines or working (or relaxing) in your own backyard. Todd was at the forefront of the piquette revival, and his version is punchier than many, and includes a touch of the original wine, as well as some local honey for a delicate sparkle. The ‘Rosato’ is a super refreshing sipper that evokes a slightly tart raspberry soda! Organically grown, low-intervention.