January 2025 - Piedmont, Italy

Piedmont (Piemonte) means “at the foot of the mountain.” This region is nearly circled by the Alps, and the region is very hilly with only 5% of the vineyards considered flat. Because of this, vineyards all seem to face different directions and have different elevations, creating many different microclimates and growing conditions. Overall, the Piemonte region has a hot growing season, misty autumn, and cold, foggy winter. Grapes that thrive in this region are Nebbiolo, Barbera, Dolcetto, Grignolino, Freisa, and Moscato.

Most wines are named after the grapes from which they are made, with the exception of those produced in specific subregions/villages such as Barolo and Barbaresco (Nebbiolo grape).

Stay tuned for date and time for the January wine tasting session.

Whites

Giacosa Fratelli Gavi, 2022

100% Cortese. A fresh, light and dry white with a full and harmonious body. Notes of apples and white flowers. With moderate ageing, this wine evolves in an interesting manner.

Conterno Il Rosato, 2023

90% Nebbiolo and 10% Uva Rara, this comes Nervi-Conterno’s four Gattinara vineyards; the steep slopes lend an incomparable minerality (Gattinara is unique in Piedmont for the shock of volcanic granite that interrupts the more typical marl and limestone). This Rosato is concentrated, mineral-driven and complex, with notes of mountain herbs and delicate berries.

Luigo Baudana Dragon Bianco, 2023

Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Nascetta & Riesling. Dragon opens to fresh fruit aromas such as kiwi, lime and pear. Hints of minerality like flint and sea stones complete the elegant bouquet. The palate is citrusy whit flavors of orchard fruit, macerated elder flower and candied orange peel that shine through the fresh and vibrant acidity. Drinkable and accessible it totally reflects the elegance and energy of the vintage. This wine is made under the Baudana label by the Vajra Estate.

Paitn Elisa Roero Arneis, 2023

Peach, violet and grapefruit notes combine with the rich texture in this juicy white. Tangy, lingering on the finish.

Reds

GD Vajra Nebbiolo, 2023

Soft, light, and approachable Nebbiolo that lacks most of the tannic bite usually found in young wine of this type. Vajra's Langhe Nebbiolo (from the estate’s youngest vines) is a harmonious wine laced with plump, perfumed Nebbiolo fruit - berries, lavender, mint. It offers outstanding length in a soft, accessible style that is sure to find many admirers.

Giacosa Fratelli Barbera D'Alba, 2022

Intense ruby red in color. The subtle oak aging enhances the complexity while maintaining fruity aromas of black currant and berries with notes of spice and tobacco. Balanced and expressive with great acidity.

Paulo Scavino Vino Rosso, 2023

A blend of Dolcetto, Barbera, Nebbiolo and Merlot from the younger vines of the estate offers a fresh, aromatic, charming wine with a Piedmontese character. Brilliant ruby-red with purple hints. Expressive, continuous and delicate aromas of red cherries and spices. Fresh in the nose and in the palate. Supple and joyful structure where the flavors are persistent and of a light nature. A delicious red which expresses the brightness of the youth, to drink over the next year or two.

G.D. Vajra Langhe Rosso, 2023

30% Nebbiolo, 30% Barbera, 30% Dolcetto; the rest of the blend is comprised of bits of Fresia, Albarossa, and Pinot Nero. The grapes are fermented and aged in stainless steel, resulting in a bright and fresh wine with notes of berries and flowers and smooth tannins on the finish. The Vairas describe this as “a hug from Piedmont!”