2023 Punta Crena Riviera Ligure di Ponente Pigato Ca Da Rena
Five Centuries of Family Winemaking on The Ligurian Coast
July 17, 2025
For over 500 years, the Ruffino family has tended their vineyards in the village of Varigotti, just west of Genoa, on the coast of Liguria .
Their approach to winemaking is measured and no-nonsense, taking care to pass their knowledge, wisdom, and family tradition from one generation to the next. For example ask the winery’s Paolo Ruffino if his family follows organic vineyard methods. He’ll laugh. “We’re not organic, he says, as if you had asked about some crazy new technology. “We just do everything the same way our ancestors have for hundreds of years”. That said, their wines from region’s indigenous grapes are of excellent quality, unpretentious, and infused with local tradition and character.
The Punta Crena estate cultivates those on steep terraces overlooking the Mediterranean, where proximity to the sea makes for unique microclimate that imparts a distinct character to their wines. This wine is made with Pigato, a native grape closely related to Vermentino. However, Pigato exhibits a richer aromatic complexity compared to Vermentino.
Aroma: A burst of citrus peel, along with notes of green apple, white peach, and Mediterranean herbs like basil, thyme, and sage, lifts out of the glass. Delicate floral nuances and a hint of sea breeze reflect the maritime influence on the vineyard. Mouth: Medium-bodied with lively acidity, envelopes ripe citrus, stone fruit, and crushed seashell minerality. The wine has a long, refreshing finish with a touch of ocean brininess, which immerses you in its local coastal character.
Punta Crena "Ca' da Rena" Pigato is an authentic and impeccable example of the Riviera Ligure di Ponente, capturing the freshness and aromatic complexity that Pigato can achieve in this unique Mediterranean terroir. Excellent $31, Case $25.99
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Richard Harmer
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