Gattinara Riserva DOCG

Driven by a passion for exceptional Nebbiolo, the Travaglini family has been producing remarkable, limited-production wines from their eponymous estate in Gattinara for four generations, with the fifth now on their way, learning from their parents. The Travaglini family has owned land in Gattinara since the beginning of the 19th century. They farmed a few hectares of land and produced wine for local consumption. It was not until 1958 however, when the third generation, Giancarlo, established the eponymous Travaglini Estate Winery. It was Giancarlo who recognized a greater potential in Gattinara and executed groundbreaking changes in his vineyards and cellar, unseen before in the appellation. His passion for Nebbiolo helped raise the profile of Gattinara, a commitment that has been carried on through the generations.

The Travaglini family owns 59 hectares of vineyards; 55 of which are dedicated to vines, primarily Nebbiolo, which covers roughly 50% of the total Gattinara DOCG. A small portion of old vines, is planted to native varieties Vespolina and Bonarda. This small appellation lies in the rocky foothills of the Monte Rosa range, where ventilating winds blow down from the nearby Alps. Soils are rocky and rich in porphyry, granit and iron, imparting a reddish color in the soil. Similar in composition to the Alps, Monte Rosa’s sedimentary rocks is highly acidic, due to low levels of calcium carbonate and magnesium, and an absence of calcium. Vines grown in this rare soil produce grapes with a unique flavor profile, as well high acidity and tannins. Its northern, mountainous location experiences a continental climate, with very cold winters, warm, sunny summers, and a strong diurnal temperature shift.

Fermentation takes place in steel tanks for about 22-25 days at a controlled temperature. Wine is aged in large Slavonian oak barrels for 36 months, while 10% of the wine is aged separately for 10 months in used French oak barrels. The reblended wine refines in bottle an additional 10 months.

Garnet color with orange and bright reflections. The nose is complex and concentrated, dominated by licorice spices and juniper berries, with slight balsamic and sandalewood aromas. A fruity profile of strawberry and blackberry jams, ending with hints of withering flowers. Poewrful tannins that have developed with age ensure a long, delectable finish.