Roberto Voerzio : Priavino 2017

A Piedmontese Dolcetto Wine with Aromas of Cherry and Plum

The Colla family's winemaking history in the Langhe area of Italy's Piedmont region dates back to the beginning of the 18th century. Nevertheless, Poderi Colla is one of the region's newest estates, founded in 1994 by Tino Colla and his niece Frederica (daughter of the legendary Beppe Colla, winemaker at Prunotto). Relying on over thirty years of experience vinifying the great vineyards of Barolo and Barbaresco, Beppe, Frederica and Tino created the 25-hectare Poderi Colla from three specific estates: a 6-hectare plot in Barolo, a property that is home to one of Barbaresco's great crus (Tenuta Ronconglie) and Cascina Drago planted with Dolcetto. All wine produced by Poderi Colla are single-vineyard creations. The "Pian Balbo" Dolcetto d'Alba 2017 is classified under the DOC Dolcetto d'Alba appellation and contains 100% Dolcetto grapes. The vines were planted between 1970 and 2000 at an altitude of 330 meters above sea level with a predominantly western exposure. Following a manual harvest, destemming and pressing, maceration takes place for 5-7 days with skins at 22-24 °C. Alcoholic fermentation is followed by a complete malolactic fermentation, after which the wine is matured in stainless steel beofre being bottled in the spring. This is the only wine in the Poderi Colla range that never sees any oak, resulting in a fresh, approachable character.

The "Pian Balbo" Dolcetto d'Alba 2017 of Poderi Colla shows off a vibrant purplish red color, with violet reflections around its edges. On the nose, aromas of cherry and plum intermingle with almond and spicy touches. Ripe fruit flavors come through on the palate, along with fine tannins and a beautifully vinous texture. The perfect traditional Piedmontese wine to serve with a good bowl of fresh Italian pasta.