2010 Nebbiolo by Francesca Castaldi - 538 Wine Notes

It would be good advice to get to know Nebbiolo from Piedmont beyond the Barolo’s and Barbaresco’s. Alta Piedmonte villages, such as Ghemme, Gattinara and Fara in the northwest part of Piedmont represent amazing value and world class wines. This Fara from Castaldi is just coming into its own after 6 years in the bottle.

This is 70% Nebbiolo with 30% Vespolina from 11 year old vines, high altitude in the commune of Briona. The two grape varieties were vinified separately in temperature controlled stainless steel for two weekd and the blended together after aging in oak for over two years.

A big, burly wine, the 2010 Fara offers up dried cherries, tobacco and a host of floral/savory notes. The 2010 is powerful, and even a touch austere - especially through the mid-palate - but it is nevertheless intriguing. Specifically, I find gorgeous purity in the fruit. Firm, chalky tannins ensure the 2010 will drink well for a number of years. The aromatics make the 2010 appealing today, but you should try to cellar the wine for at least another few years. The wild aromas for forest and barn are seductive.