Monterustico, Dogliani
Vintage: 2023
| Vintage | Product Code | Format | Closure | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | MR501B23 | 6 x 75 | Natural Cork | 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 of safeguarding the old vineyards. The estate is located in Farigliano, a small village at the heart of the appellation, halfway between Dogliani and Clavesana. Proximity to the river Tanaro and cool Alpine winds create a unique microclimate for Dolcetto, allowing for a gentle ripening of the grapes and delicate aromas to develop.
The Langhe Bianco is an ode to the historic field blends of the region and combines Arneis, Favorita and Nascetta with Manzoni Bianco and Rossese Bianco from old bush-vine vineyards. Unoaked, it is crisp and refreshing, bursting with orchard and citrus fruit aromas complemented by subtle fennel and chamomile nuances.
The Dogliani is a generous, intense expression of Dolcetto. After 18-20 days of maceration on the skins with a partially submerged cap, the wine is kept in stainless steel and is unoaked. It 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