Bianchi 'Vigneto Valferana', Gattinara Riserva DOCG, Italy

Emerging from a historic vineyard site in the hills of the Gattinara DOCG in Piedmont, this 2012 Riserva from the venerable Azienda Agricola Bianchi expresses the elegance of Nebbiolo at age with poise and power. Harvested from the Valferana plot, known for its ancient volcanic soils and high‑altitude exposure, this bottle delivers a refined expression of place and vintage, an exceptional choice for collectors and connoisseurs alike.

Product Details:

• Grape Variety: 100% Nebbiolo (Spanna)
• ABV: 13.5%
• Soil Type: Ancient volcanic rock with iron and mineral-rich clay
• Fermentation: Traditional long maceration on skins with natural yeasts
• Ageing: 24–30 months in large Slavonian and/or French oak casks, followed by extended bottle ageing

Sensory Description:

The nose opens with refined layers of rose petal, violet, dried cherry, and wild raspberry, gently supported by hints of menthol, tobacco leaf, and underbrush. On the palate, the Valferana terroir reveals itself through firm yet elegant tannins, crisp acidity and mineral undertones, volcanic‑soil driven with flavours of sour cherry, cranberry, black tea and a whisper of truffle. The magnum format has given the wine generous evolution: secondary notes of leather, tobacco leaf, and dried herbs now complement the youthful fruit core. The finish is long, structured, and persistent, with a refined savoury edge paired with residual energy and vibrancy.

Winemaker’s Background:

Azienda Agricola Bianchi traces its roots back to 1785, and today the estate is run by the Bianchi family, who have invested in the historic Gattinara zone and the Valferana vineyard. The winemaking combines respect for Piedmontese tradition with modern clarity: Nebbiolo from steep slopes, volcanic soils, and alpine‑influenced climate is vinified with care, using whole cluster and gentle extraction to preserve terroir expression. The ‘Vigneto Valferana’ Riserva is the pinnacle of their Gattinara output, a dedicated vineyard bottling emphasising age‐worthiness, depth, and authenticity from one of Italy’s great Nebbiolo regions.

Serving Suggestions:

To enjoy this magnum at its best, decant at least 60‑90 minutes to allow its complex aromas and tertiary notes to fully unfold. Serve at around 62‑64 °F (17‑18 °C) in a large Bordeaux‑style glass. It pairs beautifully with hearty Piedmontese cuisine: braised beef cheeks, wild game ragù, aged alpine cheeses like Castelmagno or Gorgonzola (not too strong), and truffle‑accented dishes. The magnum format makes it ideal for milestone celebrations, cellar‑worthy ageing, or sharing across a table of discerning guests, a true expression of Gattinara’s elegance and longevity.