Travaglini Gattinara Vendemmia 2021

Travaglini is the leading name in Gattinara, a small DOCG in the volcanic hills of Alto Piemonte in northern Piedmont, and this wine is a varietal Nebbiolo. The porphyry rich, iron bearing volcanic soils here give a more perfumed, mineral expression of Nebbiolo than the Langhe further south, while the cooler northern climate preserves the grape's high acidity and firm tannin. After fermentation the wine is aged for twenty four months in large oak foudres, the traditional choice that allows slow oxygen exchange to soften and integrate Nebbiolo's considerable tannins while adding little oak flavour, so the fruit and the site remain in front. Malolactic fermentation rounds the texture without softening the wine's natural cut. In the glass it is a translucent garnet that pales at the rim, typical of Nebbiolo, showing sour cherry, redcurrant and dried rose on the nose, with leather, a smoky note and dried herbs. The palate is medium to full bodied, with bright acidity, firm grippy tannins and a long, savoury finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanted an hour ahead, with braised beef, game and mushroom dishes.