Monterustico, Dogliani
Vintage: 2023
| Vintage | Product Code | Format | Closure | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | MR501B23 | 6 x 75 | Natural Cork | Not Yet Available |
Producer
Monterustico is an exciting project from the Vaira family, seeking to revitalise Dogliani, a region which, 30 years ago, was more sought after than Barolo. Situated on the southern Langhe hills, about 16 kilometres south of Barolo, it is known to produce outstanding Dolcetto grown on clay/marl soils known as ‘formazioni di Lequio’.
The Vaira family are masters of the Langhe and purchased Monterustico in 2015 to preserve and bring new life to the historical Dogliani area, with the aim to safeguard the old vineyards. The mitigating proximity of the river Tanaro and the presence of cool Alpine winds create a unique microclimate for Dolcetto, allowing for a gentle ripening of the grapes and delicate aromas to develop.
The Monterustico Dogliani is a generous, intense expression of Dolcetto grown on the hills outside the villages of Farigliano and Dogliani. After 18-20 days of maceration, ageing occurs in stainless steel with a partially submerged cap. The resulting wine is fresh and elegant, with a vibrant aromatic profile underpinned by velvety tannins and a juicy almondy finish.
Vineyards
The grapes are sourced from three different vineyards in Dogliani with distinctive terroirs: Monterustico, Casabianca and Zovetto. Monterustico, located at 300m , has predominantly red clay that unleashes depth and power. Casabianca, at 270m, is characterised by a mix of alluvial loam and gravel. Zovetto, the highest of the sites at 340m, features older soils that are mainly composed of white marls. This is the vineyard that contributes elegance and length to the wine.
Vintage
2023 was subject to some erratic weather but was ultimately defined by a long, even growing season with bud break around mid-March, early flowering, and a late harvest thanks to good diurnal shifts. Grape bunches were loose in structure, which resulted in low yields and very healthy grapes thanks to increased airflow.
Vinification
The grapes were harvested in late August and September. Gentle maceration with partial submerged cap lasts to 20 days, followed by a neutral ageing in stainless-steel.
Tasting Notes & Technical Details
Beautiful deep violet purple color. Notes of purple flowers and fruits, violet, raspberries and dark cherries, delicate whiffles of mint and balsamic tones all lend tons of lift to the wine. Refreshing and thirst-quenching palate, velvety tannins, with a juicy finish that recalls the nose of red fruits.
Alcohol (ABV)
12.5%
Acidity
5.22 g/l
Residual Sugar
1 g/l
pH
3.42