Nervi-Conterno Vigna Valferana Gattinara 2018 DBMG

Nervi-Conterno Vigna Valferana Gattinara 2018 in this imposing 3L Double Magnum format is a pure, etchingly precise expression of Nebbiolo from the northern reaches of Piemonte. Sourced from a single, west-facing cru in Gattinara, it captures Nebbiolo’s more alpine, finely chiseled side, distinct from the richer, broader styles of Barolo and Barbaresco. This bottling stands out for its volcanic soils, cool exposition, and the hallmark tannic backbone that promises graceful evolution over many years.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, the 2018 Vigna Valferana Gattinara shows a luminous garnet core with brick-tinged edges, already hinting at classic Nebbiolo development. The nose is lifted and detailed, offering blue and violet florals, sour cherry, wild strawberry, tobacco smoke, damp underbrush, and a delicate note of candied orange peel. Subtle spice and mineral tones weave through the bouquet, revealing more with each swirl. On the palate, this is tightly carved and supremely focused, with a linear, almost racy feel that reflects its cooler site. Crisp red and sour cherry fruit is wrapped in fine but firm tannins, supported by vibrant acidity and a distinct mineral, almost ferrous edge from the volcanic soils. The finish is long, savory, and aromatic, with lingering notes of citrus zest, dried flowers, and subtle herbal tones. In a 3L format, its aging potential is extended significantly; well-cellared bottles should evolve beautifully over 15–25 years, gaining complexity while the structure slowly softens.

Production
Vigna Valferana is a west-facing single vineyard lying at roughly 300–350 meters above sea level in Gattinara, in northern Piemonte. Here, the cooler climate and ventilated exposure, combined with volcanic, mineral-rich soils, yield Nebbiolo of tension, precision, and aromatic lift. Grapes are typically harvested by hand to allow strict selection in the vineyard and at the winery. The fruit is destemmed (or partially destemmed depending on vintage style) and fermented traditionally, with extended maceration to extract color, tannin, and complexity from the Nebbiolo skins. Maturation takes place in large neutral oak botti, allowing the wine to develop depth and polish without overt wood influence, preserving the pure expression of terroir that defines Gattinara and this particular cru.

Food & Serving
This structured, high-toned Nebbiolo is an excellent match for rich yet nuanced dishes: braised veal shanks, slow-cooked lamb shank, roasted game birds, truffle risotto, wild mushroom ragù, and aged hard cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano or mature Pecorino. Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F) to highlight both the aromatics and the finesse of the tannins. Given the wine’s youth and structure, especially from a Double Magnum, decanting for 2–3 hours is recommended to allow the bouquet to unfurl and the palate to become more supple and expressive.

Producer
Nervi-Conterno is one of the historic names of Gattinara and, since being acquired and guided by Roberto Conterno of the legendary Giacomo Conterno estate in Barolo, has become a benchmark for the region’s Nebbiolo. With roots tracing back to the 19th century, Nervi is the oldest winery in Gattinara and has long held prized parcels in crus such as Valferana and Molsino. Under Conterno’s stewardship, meticulous vineyard work, low yields, and rigorously traditional winemaking have elevated these wines to elite status, helping reassert Gattinara’s historic importance as one of Piemonte’s great Nebbiolo terroirs and earning consistent acclaim from collectors and critics alike.

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