Scarpetta Frico Rosato – Tuscany's Pink Poetry in Every Pour

Updated → August 2025

Discover the refreshing elegance of Scarpetta Frico Rosato, a light-bodied Tuscan rosé crafted from indigenous varietals. With its crisp acidity, tart cherry notes, and herbaceous undertones, this wine embodies the perfect balance between tradition and modern Italian winemaking.

The Tuscan Rosé Renaissance

In the sun-drenched hills of Tuscany, where centuries of winemaking tradition meet modern innovation, Scarpetta Frico Rosato represents a beautiful evolution in Italian rosé production. While Tuscany has long been celebrated for its bold Sangiovese-based reds like Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino, the region's rosé wines have emerged as sophisticated expressions of the same indigenous varietals that make Tuscan reds so compelling.

The renaissance of Tuscan rosé reflects a broader shift in wine appreciation globally. No longer relegated to sweet, simple summer sippers, today's rosés showcase the complexity and terroir-driven character that serious wine enthusiasts demand. Scarpetta Frico Rosato embodies this new wave of Italian rosé, combining traditional grape varieties with contemporary winemaking techniques to create something truly special.

The Scarpetta Story: From Boulder to Tuscany

The journey of Scarpetta Frico Rosato begins not in Italy, but in Boulder, Colorado, where Master Sommelier Bobby Stuckey and former French Laundry Chef Lachlan Patterson united their passion for Italian wine and cuisine. Their initial inspiration came from travels to the northeastern Italian region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, where they discovered wines that perfectly complemented the regional cuisine's emphasis on fresh, vibrant flavors.

The name "Scarpetta" itself tells a story deeply rooted in Italian culture. It refers to the small piece of bread used to soak up the last drops of delicious sauce on your plate – that final, satisfying gesture that ensures nothing goes to waste. This philosophy of appreciating every drop, every moment, permeates the entire Scarpetta wine portfolio. What began as 50 cases of old vine Friulano for their restaurant, Frasca, has grown into a celebration of Italy's diverse wine regions, with Scarpetta Frico Rosato representing their Tuscan expression.

The Indigenous Grape Trio

At the heart of Scarpetta Frico Rosato lies a harmonious blend of three indigenous Tuscan grape varieties: Sangiovese, Canaiolo, and Ciliegiolo. Each brings its own character to the final wine, creating layers of complexity that elevate this rosé beyond simple refreshment.

Sangiovese, the noble grape of Tuscany, provides the wine's structural backbone with its naturally high acidity and distinctive cherry notes. Canaiolo, once a major player in traditional Chianti blends, contributes softness and floral aromatics. Ciliegiolo, whose name derives from the Italian word for cherry, reinforces the fruit character while adding a subtle herbaceous quality that speaks to its Tuscan origins. Together, these grapes create a rosé that's unmistakably Italian, expressing the essence of Tuscany in every sip.

Tasting Profile: A Symphony in Pink

Pour a glass of Scarpetta Frico Rosato and you're immediately greeted by its beautiful pale pink hue, reminiscent of a Tuscan sunset. On the nose, fresh-cut white flowers mingle with crisp apple and subtle hints of white grapefruit, creating an inviting aromatic profile that promises refreshment.

The palate delivers on that promise with vibrant acidity that awakens the senses. Tart cherry flavors dance alongside the zesty grapefruit notes, while subtle herbaceous undertones add complexity and depth. At 12% alcohol by volume, the wine maintains a light, refreshing character without sacrificing flavor intensity. The finish is clean and crisp, with lingering mineral notes that speak to the limestone-rich soils of Tuscany.

Winemaking Philosophy

The production of Scarpetta Frico Rosato reflects a commitment to minimal intervention winemaking that allows the true character of the grapes and terroir to shine through. The grapes are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness to ensure the perfect balance between acidity and fruit expression. The rosé color is achieved through limited skin contact, carefully monitored to extract just enough color and flavor compounds without introducing excessive tannins.

Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, preserving the wine's fresh fruit character and maintaining its crisp acidity. The winemaking team avoids malolactic fermentation, ensuring the wine retains its vibrant, refreshing profile. This approach results in a rosé that's both sophisticated and approachable, perfect for those seeking authenticity in their wine choices.

The Rosé Wine Revolution

Scarpetta Frico Rosato arrives at a time when rosé wines have transcended seasonal trends to become year-round favorites among wine enthusiasts. The global rosé revolution has seen consumption increase dramatically, with discerning drinkers appreciating these wines for their versatility, food-friendliness, and ability to bridge the gap between red and white wines.

In Italy, this revolution has sparked renewed interest in traditional rosato production methods, with winemakers rediscovering indigenous grape varieties perfectly suited to rosé production. Tuscany, with its wealth of red grape varieties and ideal climate, has emerged as a particularly exciting region for rosé production. Scarpetta Frico Rosato exemplifies this movement, showcasing how traditional Tuscan grapes can create rosés that rival the best from Provence or anywhere else in the world.

Food Pairing Mastery

The versatility of Scarpetta Frico Rosato at the table cannot be overstated. Its crisp acidity and light body make it an ideal companion for grilled fish, where the wine's freshness complements the smoky char while its fruit notes enhance the natural sweetness of the seafood. Summer salads dressed with vinaigrette find a perfect match in this rosé, as the wine's acidity harmonizes with the dressing while its fruit flavors complement fresh vegetables.

Shellfish preparations, from simple steamed mussels to elaborate seafood platters, pair beautifully with this Tuscan rosé. The wine's mineral undertones echo the briny sweetness of oysters and clams, while its refreshing character cleanses the palate between bites. For vegetarian options, consider pairing Scarpetta Frico Rosato with caprese salad, grilled vegetables, or light pasta dishes featuring fresh herbs and olive oil.

Serving Suggestions and Temperature

To fully appreciate Scarpetta Frico Rosato, proper serving temperature is crucial. Chill the wine to between 45-50°F (7-10°C) for optimal enjoyment. This temperature range allows the wine's aromatic compounds to express themselves while maintaining its refreshing character. Avoid over-chilling, which can mute the delicate flavors and aromatics.

Choose appropriate glassware to enhance your tasting experience. While traditional white wine glasses work well, consider using a glass with a slightly wider bowl to allow the wine's aromatics to concentrate. Some wine enthusiasts prefer dedicated rosé glasses with gently tapered rims that direct the wine to the front of the palate, emphasizing its fresh fruit character.

Tuscany's Unique Terroir

The distinctive character of Scarpetta Frico Rosato reflects Tuscany's exceptional terroir. The region's varied topography, from rolling hills to steep slopes, creates numerous microclimates ideal for viticulture. The combination of warm days and cool nights during the growing season allows grapes to develop full flavor while retaining crucial acidity.

Tuscany's diverse soil types, including the famous galestro (friable marl) and alberese (limestone-clay), contribute minerality and complexity to the wines. These soils, combined with the Mediterranean climate influenced by sea breezes from the Tyrrhenian coast, create ideal conditions for producing rosés with both concentration and elegance. The result is wines like Scarpetta Frico Rosato that express their origin with every sip.

Market Position and Value

In the competitive world of rosé wines, Scarpetta Frico Rosato occupies an enviable position. Priced accessibly while delivering quality that punches above its weight class, this wine offers exceptional value for those seeking authentic Italian rosé without breaking the bank. Its consistent availability and stable pricing make it a reliable choice for both casual enjoyment and special occasions.

The wine's growing popularity reflects broader trends in wine consumption, where knowledgeable consumers seek out authentic, terroir-driven wines from established producers. Scarpetta Frico Rosato satisfies this demand while remaining approachable to those just beginning their wine journey, making it a versatile addition to any wine collection.

Seasonal Enjoyment Guide

While Scarpetta Frico Rosato shines as a summer sipper, its versatility extends throughout the year. In spring, pair it with asparagus dishes and fresh pea preparations. Summer calls for poolside enjoyment and barbecue pairings. Autumn brings opportunities to match the wine with roasted vegetables and lighter meat preparations. Even in winter, this rosé can brighten the table when paired with seafood pasta or as an aperitif before heartier fare.

The wine's food-friendly nature makes it particularly suitable for holiday gatherings where diverse dishes share the table. Its ability to complement everything from appetizers to light main courses makes Scarpetta Frico Rosato a host's secret weapon for successful entertaining.

Storage and Cellaring Tips

Unlike many red wines, Scarpetta Frico Rosato is crafted for immediate enjoyment. The wine's fresh, vibrant character is best appreciated within one to two years of the vintage date. Store bottles in a cool, dark place away from temperature fluctuations and vibrations. If you don't have a wine refrigerator, a cool closet or basement corner works well.

Once opened, the wine maintains its quality for 3-5 days when properly resealed and refrigerated. Consider using a vacuum pump to remove excess air from the bottle, though the wine's natural acidity helps preserve its freshness. For optimal enjoyment, plan to finish the bottle within a day or two of opening – though given its appealing character, this rarely proves challenging.

Cocktail Possibilities

Beyond traditional wine service, Scarpetta Frico Rosato opens doors to creative cocktail applications. Its crisp acidity and fruit-forward profile make it an excellent base for wine-based cocktails. Try a Rosé Spritz by combining the wine with a splash of elderflower liqueur and sparkling water, garnished with fresh strawberries. For a twist on sangria, mix the rosé with seasonal fruits, a touch of brandy, and fresh herbs like basil or mint.

The wine also shines in frosé preparations – blend it with ice and a touch of simple syrup for a sophisticated frozen treat perfect for warm weather entertaining. These applications showcase the wine's versatility while introducing it to cocktail enthusiasts who might not typically reach for rosé.

Sustainability Practices

The production of Scarpetta Frico Rosato reflects growing awareness of sustainable viticulture practices. Hand-harvesting not only ensures grape quality but also minimizes mechanical impact on vineyards. The use of indigenous grape varieties promotes biodiversity and reduces the need for excessive intervention in the vineyard.

By working with established Tuscan vineyards that understand their terroir intimately, Scarpetta supports farming practices that respect the land while producing exceptional fruit. This commitment to sustainability extends beyond environmental concerns to encompass social responsibility, supporting local communities and preserving winemaking traditions for future generations.

Your Purchase Experience

When you purchase Scarpetta Frico Rosato from Wagon Wheel Liquors, you're not just buying a bottle of wine – you're accessing over 60 years of beverage expertise. Located in the heart of downtown Durango, Wagon Wheel Liquors has served the community since the 1960s, building a reputation for knowledgeable service and carefully curated selections.

The staff at Wagon Wheel Liquors brings vast experience to help you explore their wine selection, offering personalized recommendations based on your preferences and occasion. Whether you're planning a wedding, hosting a dinner party, or simply looking for the perfect wine to complement tonight's meal, their team provides the guidance you need. Take advantage of their generous happy hour discounts Monday through Friday from 4-6 PM, or enjoy the convenience of free delivery service for your Scarpetta Frico Rosato purchase.