Langhe Nebbiolo D.O.C. 2012

Commune of origin: Castiglione Falletto. Grape variety: Nebbiolo Michet. First year of production: 2001 (This wine was produced as far back as the1980s with fruit sourced from the old vineyard). Annual production: 2,500 bottles. Vineyard area: 2,000 metres. Altitude: 340 metres. Soil profile: Clayey. Training method and vine density: Vertical Guyot, at 5,500 vines per hectare. Average age of producing vineyards: 8 years. Yield per hectare: 80 quintals.

Fermentation and maturation: 10-day controlled-temperature (27-28oC) fermentation in steel, followed by drawing-off, racking after 10 days, and malolactic fermentation in steel. 8 months’ maturation in 35-hl oak botti. Sensory description: Sparkling purplish ruby with garnet highlights. Lively, crisp varietal expression on the nose, with redcurrant and raspberry in the lead, enriched with subtle notes of clove, nutmeg, and black pepper, concluding with nuances of liquorice and tar. A tangy vein of slaty mineral is the final tessera in an aromatic mosaic of great finesse. The palate, rich and heady, offers an ambitious dynamic of succulent, chewy fruit, firm tannins, and bright acidity, concluding with a lengthy, ultra-savoury finish that brings final balance to a delicious Nebbiolo.

Serving suggestions: Meat and light game dishes, such as roasts, stews, grills and barbecues.