Nebbiolo: the ancient grape of Alto Piemonte

Nebbiolo is one of Italy's oldest and noblest grape varieties, with records dating back to the 13th century. Its name, according to tradition, derives from the autumn fog (nebbia) that envelops the Piedmontese hills during the late harvest, or from the bloom that covers the ripe berries, resembling a light mist.

In Alto Piemonte, and particularly in Gattinara, Nebbiolo finds a unique and unrepeatable expression. The volcanic soils, rich in porphyry and minerals, give the wines a vibrant minerality and aromatic complexity that distinguishes them from any other interpretation of this grape.

Unlike the Langhe, where Nebbiolo produces wines of great power and structure, here the grape develops a more elegant and slender profile. The tannins are present but silky, the acidity is lively, and the aromas range from violet to rose, from cherry to sweet spices, with a mineral and ferrous undertone that is the unmistakable signature of the terroir.

Growing Nebbiolo in Gattinara requires patience and dedication. The vineyards, south-east facing on hills between 300 and 400 meters altitude, benefit from significant temperature variations that promote slow and complete ripening of the grapes. The harvest generally takes place in the second half of October, when the grape has reached the perfect balance between sugars, acidity and phenolic maturity.

In our winery, respect for this centuries-old tradition is combined with a contemporary approach. Every bottle tells the story of a territory and a grape that, after centuries, continues to surprise with its ability to express the place where it is born.