Italy's winemaking history, has made the country well-regarded for its excellent range of still and sparkling wines. Regions in northern Italy, including TrentoDOC, Alta Langa, and Franciacorta, produce notable sparkling wines using international grape varieties like Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, benefiting from the cool climate and unique soil conditions. Influenced by French techniques such as the Méthode Champenoise, Italian winemakers have also added their own style and identity, especially noticeable in the Franciacorta region. Since its establishment as a DOC in 1967 and DOCG in 1995, Franciacorta has set a high standard for Italian sparkling wines. Some believe that these wines rival French cremant wines in quality and style but retain their unique Italian character. Despite the French influence, the sparkling wine production in northern Italy has evolved into a distinct and respected industry.
Franciacorta wines come in a variety of styles, including non-vintage, vintage (also known as Millesimato), Rosé, and Satèn. Each style reflects a different expression of the terroir and the expertise of the winemaker.
Non-vintage Franciacorta: This is the most common style of Franciacorta. It's a blend of wines from different years, made primarily from Chardonnay and Pinot Nero, with a smaller percentage of Pinot Bianco. Non-vintage Franciacorta must spend at least 18 months aging on the lees.
Franciacorta Millesimato (Vintage): This is a vintage-dated wine that must be made from a minimum of 85% of grapes from the stated vintage year. The Millesimato must spend a minimum of 30 months aging on the lees.
Franciacorta Rosé: Made from a blend of white and red grapes, with at least 25% Pinot Nero required. The Franciacorta Rosé must also spend at least 24 months aging on the lees.
Franciacorta Satèn: This is a Blanc de Blancs style of Franciacorta that can only be made from white grape varieties (primarily Chardonnay, with Pinot Bianco allowed). The Satèn is distinguished by its creamy, soft texture, achieved by bottling at a lower pressure than the other styles. This style also must spend at least 24 months aging on the lees.
Each of these styles of Franciacorta offers a unique expression of the region's terroir and the winemaker's skill. The base wines used in the blend, the dosage added after disgorging, and the length of aging on the lees all contribute to the character and complexity of the final wine.
The traditional method of production, combined with Franciacorta's unique climate and terroir, result in sparkling wines of exceptional quality. These wines are known for their elegance, fine bubbles, and complex aromas of fruit, floral, and yeast-derived notes. Whether it's a non-vintage Brut, a vintage-dated Millesimato, a Rosé, or a silky Satèn, there's a Franciacorta to suit every palate and occasion.
Non-vintage Franciacorta and Satèn styles pair well with appetizers, seafood, and lighter dishes. The additional complexity and body found in the Millesimato and Rosé styles make them excellent matches for richer seafood, white meats, and even some red meat dishes. Franciacorta Rosé is also a good match for dishes with tomatoes, be it a fresh tomato salad or a rich pasta sauce.
And of course, all styles of Franciacorta are wonderful as aperitifs or celebration wines. Their elegance, complexity, and refreshing bubbles make them a delight to sip on their own or toast with on special occasions.
Tasting at Elisabetta Abrami
Dogliani
In the sun-drenched hills of Piedmont, where the vine leaves dance to the rhythm of the wind, lies a quaint village that seems to have leaped straight from the pages of a storybook - Dogliani, a place where time stands still, and wine flows as generously as the rivers that meander through the landscape.
Nestled within the bosom of the eleven fabled villages of Barolo, Dogliani's charm lies in its unwavering devotion to the cultivation of the Dolcetto grape, a varietal that lends itself to the creation of wines as vibrant and velvety as the sunsets that grace the region's horizons. While Barolo, the king of wines, is undeniably the region's most famed offering, Dogliani stands proudly as a bastion of the lesser-known, yet no less enchanting, DOCG Dolcetto di Dogliani.
The village itself, a tapestry woven from the threads of history and culture, is divided into two distinct parts, each bearing testimony to the passage of time. The highest hill, a silent sentinel that keeps watch over the older section of the village, is encircled by lush vineyards that stretch out like emerald arms, embracing the land in a verdant hug.
As one wanders through the cobbled streets of Dogliani, they cannot help but be captivated by the whimsical air that permeates the village. Instead of prosaic signs pointing the way to the revered churches and buildings, the village has enlisted the talents of local artists to paint charming black and white vignettes, accompanied by arrows that guide the way like a breadcrumb trail of beauty.
Each step through the winding alleys is a journey into a world of wonder, where the very walls and doors breathe life into the village through the delicate brushstrokes of subtly painted cats, vibrant flowers, and other ethereal works of art. The essence of the village is captured in these scenes, as though the spirit of Dogliani has seeped into the paint itself.
Tucked within the embrace of the old town, one finds an array of charming restaurants and boutiques, each a treasure trove of delights waiting to be discovered. A visit to the local churches, like the Church of San Quirico or the Church of San Paolo, offers a glimpse into the village's rich history, and the hallowed halls echo with the whispered prayers of centuries past.
Dogliani, with its unique charm and dedication to the art of winemaking, is a living testament to the beauty of the Piedmont region. Its proximity to the esteemed Barolo only serves to enhance its allure, as the village stands as a symbol of the importance of preserving tradition and honoring the land that has given so much.
And so, as the sun dips below the horizon, casting the village in hues of gold and rose, one cannot help but feel a sense of awe in the presence of such splendor - a place where the magic of the past intertwines with the promise of the future, a village where wine and art live in perfect harmony. This is Dogliani, a jewel in the crown of Italy's wine country, waiting to be explored by those who dare to dream.
December/January around Verduno in Barolo
In the heart of Piedmont, where the vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see, there lies a village that embodies the essence of life's cyclical dance - Verduno, a place where the passage of time is marked not by the ticking of clocks, but by the ebb and flow of the seasons.
As winter descends upon the village, casting a silvery veil upon the landscape, Verduno is transformed into a realm of quiet beauty, where the once-vibrant vines have been harvested, their colors fading into a symphony of russet and gold. The damp soil, saturated with the lifeblood of countless harvests, exudes the rich scent of earth and promises of fruitful years to come.
The cool air, a crisp and invigorating embrace, beckons visitors to wander through the village's winding lanes, finding solace in the smallest details. Here, one might glimpse the delicate tracery of frost on a windowpane or the dew-kissed cobwebs that festoon the eaves of ancient buildings. Verduno, in the depths of winter, is a world where even the most ephemeral of sights is a testament to the beauty of nature's artistry.
Yet, for all its quietude, Verduno is far from a land of desolation. There is a sense of anticipation that permeates the village, a tinge of excitement that hums beneath the surface like a melody waiting to be sung. The vineyards, their gnarled branches stark against the pale sky, stand as symbols of resilience, a reminder that life's cycles are but a prelude to rebirth and renewal.
As the days lengthen and the sun warms the earth once more, Verduno awakens from its winter slumber, bursting forth with renewed vigor. The vineyards come alive, a kaleidoscope of green as tendrils reach for the sky, their leaves unfurling like a symphony of life. The village, too, is a hive of activity, its streets alive with the laughter of children and the hum of conversation as friends gather to share the bounty of the season.
In Verduno, every season is a celebration of life in all its myriad forms. The winter months, full of quiet introspection and the beauty of decay, are but a prelude to the joyous rebirth of spring and the exuberance of summer. The village, with its ancient streets and verdant vineyards, is a living testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the eternal promise of renewal.
And so, as the seasons turn and the wheel of time continues its inexorable journey, one cannot help but be captivated by the magic of Verduno. This is a place where beauty is found in the smallest details, where the passage of time is marked by the changing of the leaves and the ripening of the grapes. Verduno is a village that embraces life in all its fleeting glory, a celebration of the ever-changing tapestry that is our world.
Grinzane Cavour
In the northern reaches of the Barolo region, a land renowned for the intoxicating nectar it produces, lies the village of Grinzane Cavour - a place where history and beauty intertwine to create a tapestry of charm and intrigue. From its vantage point upon the verdant slopes, one can gaze out upon the expansive valley stretching towards Diano, while to the south, the cozy yet vast embrace of the Barolo valley unfolds like a storybook landscape, ripe with promise and allure.
Grinzane Cavour, though perhaps not as famed as its neighboring villages for the production of Barolo's most illustrious wines, possesses a unique character that sets it apart from the rest. The village bears the name of the noble statesman Camillo Benso, Count of Cavour, whose legacy still permeates the very air of the place, a whispered reminder of the passage of time and the indelible mark left by those who have come before.
At the heart of Grinzane Cavour stands its castle, a sentinel of stone that has withstood the ravages of time, its walls bearing witness to the ebb and flow of history. Within its embrace, one finds an array of treasures - restaurants where sumptuous fare is served alongside generous pours of the region's finest wines, a wine shop that offers a veritable cornucopia of vintages and varietals, and a wealth of history that speaks of generations past and present.
For those who venture beyond the castle's walls, Grinzane Cavour unfurls like a vibrant tapestry, its streets and pathways offering a journey through time and space. A walkway, designed with the discerning visitor in mind, beckons with its breathtaking views and informative plaques that narrate, in both Italian and English, the rich history of winegrowing and production in the Barolo region. This educational promenade provides not only a feast for the eyes but an enlightenment of the mind, allowing one to truly appreciate the intricate dance of nature, tradition, and human ingenuity that has shaped the landscape and its people.
Grinzane Cavour, with its blend of history, beauty, and the ever-present influence of the noble grape, is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit. The village, though perhaps not as renowned as others in the region, possesses a charm and allure that is undeniable - a place where the passage of time is measured not in hours and minutes, but in the changing of the seasons and the slow, inexorable march of history.
And so, in the shadow of the castle and the rolling hills of the Barolo valley, Grinzane Cavour stands as a living monument to the past and a promise of the future - a place where the old and the new coexist in harmony, a village that, much like the wines it produces, offers a unique and unforgettable experience that lingers long after the last drop has been savored.
Castiglione Falletto
In the heart of the Barolo region, nestled amidst the undulating hills and verdant vineyards that have earned it worldwide renown, lies the enchanting village of Castiglione Falletto - a jewel in the crown of Italian viticulture, where time seems to have stood still in the face of the relentless march of progress. A bastion of tradition and a testament to the indomitable spirit of the vintner, Castiglione Falletto offers a glimpse into the soul of a land that has been shaped, in equal measure, by the toil of human hands and the capricious whims of nature.
The outstanding character of Castiglione Falletto lies not only in its breathtaking beauty but in the quality of the wines that spring forth from its fertile soils, a rich bounty that has placed this village among the most esteemed of the eleven Barolo communes. Within its borders, a wealth of reputable wineries flourish, their cellars filled with the fruits of their labors, waiting to be discovered by those with a discerning palate and a passion for the finer things in life.
From the heights of Castiglione Falletto's ancient ramparts, one can survey a landscape that stretches out as far as the eye can see, a patchwork of vineyards and villages that tell the story of a region steeped in history and tradition. The views from this vantage point are nothing short of extraordinary, a feast for the senses that leaves one humbled by the sheer magnificence of nature's handiwork.
The charm of Castiglione Falletto is woven into the very fabric of its narrow streets and sun-drenched piazzas, where locals and visitors alike gather to share in the simple pleasures of life - a leisurely stroll, a glass of wine, or a conversation among friends. In this timeless setting, it is easy to lose oneself in the moment, to be swept up in the spell that the village casts upon those who are fortunate enough to find themselves within its embrace.
What sets Castiglione Falletto apart from the other ten Barolo communes is the unique interplay between its soil and microclimate, a delicate balance that imbues its wines with a singular character and complexity. The village's vineyards are blessed with a distinctive combination of calcareous marl and sandstone, a geological gift that lends structure and elegance to the wines of Castiglione Falletto, endowing them with a depth and intensity that sets them apart from their peers.
In the end, it is the marriage of nature and human endeavor that defines the essence of Castiglione Falletto, a village that stands as a living testament to the power of the land and the passion of those who have made it their life's work to coax forth its riches. In the wines of Castiglione Falletto, one finds the very soul of Barolo - a spirit that has endured the test of time and continues to captivate the hearts and minds of those who are fortunate enough to share in its bounty.
Vietti Wine tasting - Castiglione Falletto
Vietti Winery in Castiglione Falletto, Barolo Region and Specifics Regarding their Langhe Nebbiolo Perbacco
The Vietti Winery, founded in the early 20th century, is a prestigious, family-owned estate located in the heart of Castiglione Falletto in the Barolo region of Piedmont, Italy. The winery is known for its dedication to tradition, innovation, and the highest quality of winemaking. Over the years, it has earned a reputation for producing exceptional Barolo wines that are expressive of the unique terroir of the region.
The estate, which spans over several vineyards in the region, is managed by the passionate and dedicated Currado family. The winery is nestled in the picturesque landscape of rolling hills and vineyards, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The Vietti Winery is a perfect blend of traditional architecture and modern winemaking facilities, where cutting-edge technology is used alongside time-honored techniques to produce the best possible wines.
Perbacco Vineyard and Vietti 2019 Langhe Nebbiolo Perbacco:
The Perbacco vineyard is one of the many vineyards owned by the Vietti Winery. It is located in the Langhe area, which is known for its diverse soil types and microclimates that contribute to the distinct characteristics of the wines produced here. The vineyard primarily grows Nebbiolo grapes, which are used to create the Vietti 2019 Langhe Nebbiolo Perbacco.
Soil: The soil in the Perbacco vineyard is predominantly calcareous marl with a mix of clay and sand. This composition provides excellent drainage and water retention, allowing the Nebbiolo vines to thrive and develop complex flavors in the grapes.
Aspect: The vineyard's aspect is south and southwest-facing, which ensures that the vines receive ample sunlight throughout the growing season. This, in turn, contributes to the optimal ripening of the grapes, enhancing their color, aroma, and flavor profile.
Slope: The Perbacco vineyard is situated on moderately steep slopes, which promote better drainage and air circulation around the vines. This helps prevent diseases and pests while ensuring the grapes receive the ideal balance of sun and shade.
Viticulture: The Vietti Winery practices sustainable and environmentally responsible viticulture, with a focus on preserving the natural balance in the vineyard. Techniques such as green harvesting, canopy management, and minimal intervention are employed to ensure the health and quality of the grapes.
Vinification: The Vietti 2019 Langhe Nebbiolo Perbacco undergoes a traditional vinification process, which includes a 15-20 day maceration on the skins to extract color, flavor, and tannins. The wine is then aged for approximately 24 months in a combination of large oak casks and stainless-steel tanks to preserve the fruit's purity and freshness. After aging, the wine is blended and bottled without filtration, allowing the true character of the Nebbiolo grape and the Perbacco vineyard's terroir to shine through.
The Vietti 2019 Langhe Nebbiolo Perbacco is a well-structured and elegant wine, characterized by its bright red fruit flavors, floral notes, and earthy undertones. The wine's vibrant acidity and refined tannins make it a versatile food companion and an excellent choice for those seeking to experience the essence of Nebbiolo from the Langhe region.
Tasting Note in English:
Appearance: The 2019 Vietti Langhe Nebbiolo Perbacco is clear and bright, with a medium garnet color and a youthful rim.
Nose: On the nose, this wine offers pronounced intensity, displaying aromas of ripe red cherries, raspberries, rose petals, violets, and subtle hints of leather, tar, and an earthy undertone.
Palate: The palate is dry, with high acidity, medium (+) body, and well-integrated medium tannins. Flavors of red fruit, such as cherries and raspberries, are accompanied by floral and earthy notes, followed by a medium (+) finish.
Quality: The 2019 Vietti Langhe Nebbiolo Perbacco is a very good quality wine, demonstrating balanced acidity and tannins with a good concentration of fruit and complexity. The finish is moderately long, showing the potential to evolve and improve over time.
1. The pronounced intensity on the nose and palate, highlighting the Nebbiolo grape's aromatic characteristics. 2. The well-integrated tannins and high acidity provide structure and balance to the wine. 3. The diverse range of fruit, floral, and earthy notes showcases the unique terroir of the Langhe region. 4. The medium (+) finish is indicative of the wine's potential for further development. 5. The good concentration of flavors and complexity demonstrate the wine's overall quality.
Le noti del vino:
Aspetto: Il Vietti Langhe Nebbiolo Perbacco 2019 è limpido e brillante, con un colore granato medio e un bordo giovane.
Naso: Al naso, questo vino offre un'intensità pronunciata, mostrando aromi di ciliegie rosse mature, lamponi, petali di rosa, violette e sottili accenni di cuoio, catrame e un sottofondo terroso.
Palato: Il palato è secco, con un'acidità elevata, corpo medio (+) e tannini medi integrati. I sapori di frutta rossa, come ciliegie e lamponi, sono accompagnati da note floreali e terrose, seguiti da una lunghezza media (+).
Qualità: Il Vietti Langhe Nebbiolo Perbacco 2019 è un vino di qualità molto buona, che dimostra un'acidità equilibrata e tannini ben integrati con una buona concentrazione di frutta e complessità. La lunghezza è moderatamente lunga, mostrando il potenziale per evolvere e migliorare nel tempo.
1. L'intensità pronunciata al naso e al palato, evidenziando le caratteristiche aromatiche dell'uva Nebbiolo. 2. I tannini ben integrati e l'acidità elevata forniscono struttura ed equilibrio al vino. 3. La gamma diversificata di note fruttate, floreali e terrose mette in mostra il terroir unico della regione delle Langhe. 4. La lunghezza media (+) è indicativa del potenziale del vino per ulteriori sviluppi. 5. La buona concentrazione di sapori e complessità dimostra la qualità complessiva del vino.
Monforte D'Alba
In and around Barolo at the end of harvest...
Oregon Wine Country
Fall of 2022 - Patricia Green, Christom, Bergstrom, Soter, Hazelfern, Beckham Estates
Fall of 2021
Barbaresco, Italy
Matthiasson Winery Tasting
New Misc. Napa
Diploma D1 Test - A "Covid-Times" Trip around Napa
Corison Winery
What else do you expect from a Master of Wine but just fantastic, top-of the line and reasonably priced wines of the highest caliber. From the distinctive and delicious rose to the 2000 Kronos, we tasted some of the best wines in the world and likely the best wines of Napa. Matt and Courtney were fantastic hosts and the 2006 Kronos Magnum will be a great treat!! Can't wait!!
Frog's Leap
First, I want to mention Evan.. He has been an incredible host on more than one occasion and is just fantastic as a tour and tasting guide. We discussed canopy management (enabling more morning sun while protecting for an extra hour of afternoon daylight), 110R rootstock for Cab Sauv and drought protection, the absence of cover crop to avoid water competition with the vines, their unique approach to mass selection and root stock development, cross-flow filters, concrete usage, parallel pneumatic pressing, oak selection and usage and wine (of course). There were other topics along the way and Evan knows his stuff.
The wines are restrained, lower alcohol and delicious. The highlight is their reserve Sauvignon Blanc - a wonderfully balanced and perfectly integrated wine. All the wines are properly oaked, well-blended for complexity and interest, reliable while being complex, subtle and nuanced and vibrant. A wonderful visit!!
Robert Sinskey
Bodega Bay and Armstrong Redwoods
Hourglass Vineyard
Jarvis Winery
Piemonte, Italy - The Langhe
Guido Porro - Serralunga d'Alba
Barolo, Alba, and Piemonte areas....
Marchesi di Barolo
Valdobiadene - Prosecco Country
Quintarelli Winery and the region around Verona
Allegrini Vineyards and Winery
A few from around Montepulciano - Including Talosa Winery