Vallegrande is the Grasso family’s historic home vineyard in Treiso, and the source of some of their most powerful, structured Nebbiolos. Dark cherry, dried rose, blood orange, tobacco, and a healthy dose of earthy spice give this wine tremendous character. There's plenty of muscle here, but nothing heavy-handed: firm, beautifully worked tannins, lively acidity, and a long, savory finish. A terrific example of Treiso's more commanding side, with the balance and finesse to age gracefully for years.
For four generations the Grasso family has been quietly making a name for themselves in the Barbaresco region; their Ca’ del Baio estate is now helmed by sisters Paola, Valentina and Federica, following closely in the footsteps of their parents Giulio and Luciana. In the Italian wine world, Giulio is known as an authentic grape-grower, a man who lives the rhythms of nature and countryside practically in symbiosis with his vineyards, and whose Barbaresco wines most deeply represent his ties to his land; these are the values his daughters faithfully maintain. Together they farm 32 hectares of vines mostly in the villages of Barbaresco and Treiso, including prestigious MGAs (single vineyards) Asili, Pora, and Vallegrande. Farming practices are based on the “Green Experience,” a philosophy and certification of sustainable viticulture developed by farmers in the Langhe, born out of the region's UNESCO World Heritage site status and with a drive to preserve the beauty and biodiversity of the region and its traditional viticulture. In practice, that means the exclusion of synthetic/chemical pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers, the diffusion of pollinating insects, and the planting of herbaceous and floral essences. In the cellar, winemaking is essential and is based on native yeasts fermentations, minimal use of sulfites and the exclusion of any additives.