Derthona 2023

Derthona from the Borgogno estate comes from the Colli Tortonesi hills in Piedmont, northwestern Italy. The Timorasso vines are rooted in mineral-rich marl-limestone soils, located at moderate altitudes which favour a good thermal amplitude between day and night. This hilly, ventilated and well-drained terroir allows for a slow and complete maturation of the grapes, giving rise to a white wine of character. The proximity of the Apennine mountain range contributes to the freshness of the climate and the precise expression of minerality in the wine.

Timorasso grapes are harvested by hand, then gently pressed before cold settling. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures, in order to preserve the aromatic purity and mineral tension of the grape variety. The wine is then aged on fine lees in stainless steel tanks for several months, with periodic bâtonnage to bring volume and complexity, before bottling aimed at preserving the freshness and precise expression of the Derthona terroir.

This wine reveals notes of white-fleshed fruit, ripe citrus, and stone fruit, complemented by delicate floral touches, honeyed nuances, and a distinct mineral register, sometimes highlighted by slight smoky notes. On the palate, the texture is ample and structured, supported by a lively acidity and an almost saline texture, with a long and taut finish that highlights the depth and aromatic persistence of this Timorasso.

Ah, Italy, what a beautiful, hedonistic country, the land of la dolce vita, but how difficult it is to understand its wine industry! The key to understanding the appellation system in Italy is to think of it as several small countries rather than a single homogeneous nation, as each region has its own appellation system. Italy can offer wine lovers a multitude of wines with varied and unique flavors and styles, bottles brimming with surprise and creativity. Unfortunately, it also produces a large quantity of soulless, characterless wines sold under their most commercially useful and prestigious name: Pinot Grigio, Chianti, Valpolicella, Lambrusco, Prosecco, and many others... But let's talk a little history. Viticulture in Italy dates back to antiquity and originated in Greece. The Etruscans are said to have introduced the vine, and Greek immigrants improved and modified the grape varieties, subsequently calling the country "Oenotria": the land of wine. At the height of the Roman Empire, wine held an important place in daily life, and certain regions already distinguished themselves by the excellence of their product. The Romans also established numerous vineyards in Europe, leaving an indelible mark of their conquest. Today, Italy is the world's largest wine producer, ahead of France. Italy is divided into three climatic zones. The northern mountains have a rather harsh mountain climate. The plains of the "central boot" are characterized by a continental climate with cold winters and hot, stormy summers. In the southern part of the Italian boot, the Mediterranean climate prevails, with very hot and dry summers, not forgetting the islands of Sicily and Sardinia. In short, Italy produces a wide variety of wines thanks to its 200 different grape varieties, many of which originated in its own lands. It is a country as complex as its wines, which deserve to be explored!