Description
These special wines are only produced in truly exceptional growing seasons, and in the last 15 years, there have only been five: 2005, 2007, 2009, 2013, and 2016. Arpepe thinks of a Riserva vintage when the skins of Chiavennasca - the local name for Nebbiolo - are thick enough to allow longer macerations and ageing time in botti. Emanuele reckons a good delta in temperature between day and night closer to vintage, is crucial for achieving this desired result, in addition to bring out the complex flavors and aromas of this grape.
In Riserva vintages, the different crus from each subzone (Grumello, Inferno, Sassella) are vinified and released separately, highlighting the unique qualities of each. In non-Riserva years, all the crus of each subzone are blended together into one label: Rocca De Piro for Grumello and Stella Retica for Sassella.
"Cherry, strawberry, orange peel, mint and herbs. It’s dry and stony, plenty of citrus zest and a sort of autumnal decay, almond too, with slightly scratchy tannin, and a dry and zesty finish of good length. It’s a little sappy but full of character. Better with a few more years." - 93+ Points, Gary Walsh, The Wine Front
