Our tasting impressions
This is a wonderful Nebbiolo. It displays much more richness and purity than one usually finds at this level - perhaps a bit more tannic as well. This appears plusher, fuller and fruitier than the 2018. Really a terrific effort!
About this wine
Langhe Nebbiolo (100% Nebbiolo) is produced either or both from vineyards not classified as Barolo or Barbaresco or from less desirable or younger vines within those classifications. As a result, they tend to be softer and more accessible.
Sergio does a short maceration, just 7 days, in only 20% oak,. He ages it 1 year before bottling.
About the grape
Nebbiolo, the name believed to be derived from nebbia, Italian for fog, is a grape with one of the most protracted maturation cycles. It buds in early spring and ripens late fall (when the winter nebbia from the Alps reaches the vineyards).
Nebbiolo vines tend to grow upwardly with abandon, so management is essential to limit grape production and channel energy to them. They also are very particular about where they will thrive, which is why Nebbiolo is seldom found outside of Piedmont. Even there, it only is successful when planted on south facing slopes (much sun is needed for ripening), at elevations between 250 and 450 meters (lower there is too much frost exposure, higher the grapes won’t ripen).
Wines from Nebbiolo usually are pale-colored, high in acidity and very tannic. Common flavor descriptors are rose and tar. They tend to be highly aromatic.
About the vintage
2019 was a challenging vintage but ultimately an excellent one. Yields were down about 15% on average. Growers had to deal with heavy spring rain and some hail. The summer was very hot and rot was a very real threat. Ultimately, it is shaping up to be a rather classic year for Nebbiolo.
Suggested Glassware: Grassl Cru