2014 Harvesting

Observing the climate pattern, after a rainy winter, but which recorded mild temperatures, the spring appeared gradually, but early, in the vineyards of the Langhe, meaning that growth also resumed earlier than in the previous year. A certain degree of graduality could already be seen in the physiological development of the wine from its early stages, with the differences due to the variability in the microclimates in the different valleys, appearing clearer than usual right from the outset.

The beginning of summer saw temperatures which were entirely in the norm, allowing for the slightly early growth that developed in spring to be maintained. The amount of precipitation in the summer has been beyond the average, not so much from the point of view of the number of rainy days as from that of the intensity of the phenomena that occurred. This factor combined with average temperatures which were not low, has created ideal conditions for fungal attacks, so that the attention to this aspect had never before been so critical in managing to achieve the ripening of sound grapes.

The month of September has been very positive in terms of climate, with good temperatures and with good day-night temperature variations, factors that have remained stable in October, contributing significantly to the ripening of the grapes and the composition of its phenolic profile.

Considering how the thermal sum is in line with the data of the past years and days with positive temperatures for the physiology of the vine have been distributed throughout the entire development cycle it can be said that the qualitative results were beyond all expectations. The best productions were obtained from the vineyards which were tended most carefully and managed on the basis of the climate: the vineyards in the sunniest positions, with well-aired and drained soil, protected using the correct treatments, and subjected to thinning of the bunches and stripping of the leaves at the right time.

The wines

Despite its having been one of the most complex to manage in the vineyard in recent years, the favourable end to the 2014 vintage proved to be pleasantly surprising in terms of the quality of the grapes.
White wines production was lower than past years, though with very similar sugar levels, that combined with an at times marked acidity will ensure freshness in the aromas too.

Among the red grapes, Dolcetto is perhaps the variety that has had a lower yield in quantity, but proper operations of green harvesting and cleaning of the bunches at harvest had a result of very well balanced wines, perhaps with less structure and alcohol , but certainly with a considerable quantity of aromas and a marked intensity of colour.

Barbera has good acidity, characteristic of the grape, but after fermentation it has been naturally reduced, ensuring a greater balance and long life wines, in view also of the massive contribution of phenolic substances.

The Nebbiolo wines show great potential, with the truly astonishing capacity of this grape to adapt to the area of the Langhe and Roero. Considering that the situation was very varied compared to recent years, due also in part to the hailstorms which affected the area in patches, the wines are elegant and well-balanced with medium alcohol. They have excellent noses packed with mineral notes and good acidity making them long-lasting wines.