Langhe Nebbiolo 2023

Originating from the Langhe hills in southern Piedmont, this Langhe Nebbiolo from the Margherita Otto estate comes from parcels located around Barolo and neighboring villages, on marly soils rich in limestone and clay. These well-exposed slopes benefit from a continental climate tempered by Alpine influences, with significant temperature variations that promote slow and complete ripening of the grapes. The vineyard is managed with great attention to traditional viticulture, in order to precisely express the character of the region's historic terroirs.

This wine reveals notes of crisp red berries , delicate black fruits , and floral nuances of rose and violet , enhanced by spicy touches and a subtle hint of licorice . On the palate, the wine is elegant, supported by fresh acidity and fine yet present tannins that structure the whole without harshness. The texture remains supple, with a persistent and slightly saline finish, marked by a return of sweet spices and red fruit.

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!