Nervi Conterno - Gattinara 2020

Nervi is the oldest winery in Gattinara. Gattinara is home to some of the best Nebbiolo vineyards in the world. Since 1906, the Nervi estate has been a star of the Alto Piemonte's town of Gattinara, which almost certainly produces the greatest examples of Nebbiolo outside of Barolo and Barbaresco. It was recently purchased by Barolo royalty, Roberto Conterno and now exists under the combined name of Nervi Conterno, which it now produces wine under. The vineyards are Grand Cru in status, south facing, receiving the best sun and producing powerful fruit from volcanic laced soils. This is serious Nebbiolo that we absolutely love.

Of the ‘Alto Piemonte’ regions (those north of Barolo in the foothills of the Alps separating Italy and Switzerland), Gattinara is arguably the most exciting, thanks to its unique terroir: a vein of volcanic gravel, on steep, high-elevation slopes. The effect of extreme climate swings coax a distinct minerality and a tender fragility from nebbiolo, all without compromising their longevity. Indeed, some of the finest old nebbiolo we’ve experienced have been Nervi bottlings dating back to the cantina’s heydays of the 50’s and 60’s.

Gentle destemming and crushing, fermentation in stainless steel vats at controlled temperatures. Macerated for about three to four weeks following the completion of alcoholic fermentation. Malolactic fermentation following alcoholic fermentation in oak barrels. Aged for about three years in large oak barrels.

"The 2020 Gattinara is elegant and lifted. Crushed red berry fruit, cinnamon and orange peel grace this ethereal, nuanced Gattinara. Bright saline notes and sweet red-toned fruit build into the long, persistent finish. Understated and silky, the 2020 is exquisite. All this needs is a few years to soften." - 94 points, Antonio Galloni Vinous

Producer: Nervi Conterno

Country: Italy

Region: Alto Piemonte

Varietal: Nebbiolo

Appellation: Gattinara 

Vintage: 2020

Size: 750ml