Colombera & Garella Melascone 2023

Colombera and Garella farm in the Coste della Sesia in Alto Piemonte, the cool alpine north of the region, the venture of Carlo Colombera, his son Giacomo and oenologist Cristiano Garella. Melascone 2023 blends Nebbiolo with two local grapes, Croatina and Vespolina, a traditional pairing of this corner of Piedmont. The acidic, mineral soils and cooler climate of Alto Piemonte give lighter, fresher and more aromatic reds than the Langhe further south, while Vespolina adds pepper and spice and Croatina brings deep colour and soft fruit to Nebbiolo's structure. Ageing is split between oak barrels for ten months and old stone vats for four, the latter an inert, slow-maturing vessel that keeps the fruit fresh and the wine's natural character intact. The colour is a bright ruby. The nose is lifted, with red cherry and redcurrant, a floral note of rose and a savoury, peppery edge. The palate is medium bodied and fresh, the tannins fine, the acidity lively, finishing clean and savoury. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. It suits roast duck, beef and mushroom dishes.