2012 Paolo Conterno Langhe Nebbiolo "A Mont"

Vines and training: 100% Nebbiolo; Guyot counter-espalier training system.

Growing location: Monforte d’Alba (CN).

Name of vineyard: Ginestra.

Vineyard exposure: south-east.

Type of soil: mainly clayey and calcareous, providing ideal water retention. Altitude: 300-350 metres a.s.l.

Gradient: varying from 30 to 35%.

Age of vines: 18/20 years.

Planting density: 4000 plants/ha.

Yield/hectare: 7 tonnes.

Harvest: picking by hand in the first ten days of October.

Wine-making process: the grapes are crushed and destemmed immediately after picking, and then undergo maceration in tanks for soft, continuous extraction of the noble components in the skins. After 7-8 days the wine is drawn off, and the fermentation is completed without any further intake of tannins.

Maturing: in casks of French oak holding 35 hl for an average period of one year, bringing out the fullness of its character while keeping intact its youth and freshness.

Analytical parameters: Alcohol: 12.5-13% by Vol; Total acidity: 5.4-5.8 g/l (as tartaric acid); Net dry extract: 25-28 g/l.

Tasting notes: bright garnet red colour; flowery nose, showing roses and fruity sensations. Mouth-filling and elegantly-structured; round with complex, slightly spicy flavours lingering nicely on the palate.

Pairings: best with pasta dishes such as “tagliolini” with meat sauce, main courses of meat served with sauces, and medium-mature cheeses.