Nervi-Conterno Gattinara 2022

A graceful and perfumed wine with aromas of peaches, wild strawberries, Parma violets, cherry pits and rhubarb with a touch of smoke. Firm and bony on the full-bodied palate, with tense, velvety, slightly dusty tannins. Polished and sleek finish. Drink or hold. 96 Points, James Suckling

2022 was a warmer year throughout both Gattinara and the Langhe but grape growers and winemakers who got it right made beautiful wines in this vintage. When we travelled here in March 22, all were espousing the quality of the vintage. Roberto expected wines that were more austere and difficult given the effect of heat on Nebbiolo aromatics and tannin but the resultant wines are more pleasant and immediately pleasing. Though they may not have the 40-50 year longevity that cooler vintages do, they are easier to love as younger wines.

Coming from four crus within the Gattinara commune, ranging between 290–420 metres in elevation (Molsino, Valferana, Garavoglie, and Casacce vineyards).  

After gentle destemming and crushing, fermentation and maceration of 18-20 days occurred in 45HL truncated conical oak vats followed by aging in large oak for 36 months before bottling. Roberto purchased 12 new Stockinger tini in recent years, with the others all originals from Nervi estate, some are 55 years old. Importer note