| The Francoli family planted their first vineyard of Nebbiolo grapes in 1977. Created thirteen years later, Torraccia del Piantavigna is located in Ghemme, Northern Piedmont, at the foot of the Monte Rosa massif. Torraccia means “old tower,” and refers to the remains of the Castello di Cavenago, a medieval castle that used to overlook the vineyards. Piantavigna means “the planting of the vines” and is the surname of the Francoli family maternal grandfather, Peter Piantavigna. The domaine now spreads over 36 hectares of vineyards, located in the highly regulated DOCG’s of Ghemme and Gattinara. The vineyards are all planted with indigenous varieties: Nebbiolo, Vespolina and Erbaluce. They are hand-harvested. The young generation running the estate produces wines of great quality and elegance, and is committed to the respect and the protection of the environment. Beppe Caviola has been the consultant winemaker since 2004. The winery produced a 7-time Gambero Rosso “Tre Bicchieri” winner, and their 2007 Ghemme was in the top 50 Best Italian Wines. Farming/vinification practices: In 2014, Torraccia Piantavigna won Vini Buoni d’Italia's Eco-Friendly award. The wines are vegan. They are not filtered. |
| Torraccia del Piantavigna Website |
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| Ramale Nebbiolo – Colline Novaresi |
| Named after a little river that runs on the property, this wine is made from Nebbiolo grapes, with a little Vespolina added. The vines grow on rocky morainic clay soil. Aged for 24 months in medium size older French oak barrels. This is a declassified Ghemme, as the DOCG calls for at least 3 years of aging. Soft tannins, hints of violets, spicy notes. 13% alcohol. |
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| Ghemme |
| The small DOCG of Ghemme is only 65 hectares. 90% Nebbiolo, 10% Vespolina - up to 15% of a native variety is allowed. The vines are planted on rocky morainic clay soil. The wine is aged three years in medium size French oak casks, then 6 months in bottle before release. Ripe red fruits, hints of violets and liquorish. Dry, sapid, with soft tannins, typical acidity and a long finish. 14% alcohol. |
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| Gattinara |
| The small DOCG of Gattinara is only 110 hectares. 100% Nebbiolo (Spanna). The grapes grapes are grown in one of Italy’s most acidic soils: stony and volcanic. Aged at least three years in medium size French Allier oak casks, then 6 months in bottle before release. Balanced with notes of liquorice, vanilla, mushroom, woodruff and spices. Dry, good tannins, mineral and harmonious. 14% alcohol. |
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| La Mostella Vespolina |
| DOC Colline Novaresi. Named after a little river that runs on the property, this wine is made from 100% Vespolina grapes, a native variety with very thin skin. Only 40 hectares are left in Italy, and Torraccia del Piantavigna is the largest producer with 4 hectares. The vines are planted on clay soil and the grapes are hand harvested at the end of September. Aged for 10 months in oak and an extra month in bottle before release. Peppery nose and floral aromas. 12.5% alcohol. |
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