2005 Elio Grasso - Barolo Gavarini Vigna Chiniera

Elio Grasso is one of the best producers of Barolo. The estate vineyards and cellar, located outside the town of Monforte d’Alba, are surrounded by improbably steep vineyards on the eastern side of the Barolo appellation. The winery uses only estate grown grapes from varieties traditionally grown in the Langhe hill country near Alba. Elio works mostly in the vineyards, leaving the cellar work to his son Gianluca and wine consultant, Piero Ballario. Grasso farms Nebbiolo for the Barolo from 3 vineyards in Monforte – Ginestra Vigna Casa Mate, Gavarini Vigna Chiniera and Runcot, all with their own unique qualities. These south facing vineyards are planted on relatively loose-packed calcareous soil at elevations between 918-1,312 feet. All the grapes are vinified separately, according to the vineyard of provenance. The cellar displays an assortment of stainless steel tanks, where all the grapes are fermented, with the exception of Chardonnay, as well as 25 hectoliter Slavonian oak barrels and small 225 liter casks of French oak. At present, their annual level of production enables Grasso to remain family managed, as well as continue their meticulous control over all stages of winemaking, from vineyard to cellar. The wines combine structure with elegance, aromatic finesse, solid character and exceptional aging potential.

Elio Grasso’s Barolo Gavarini Vigna Chiniera was produced in Monforte d’Alba (Cuneo) from 100% Nebbiolo grapes. The vines, with an average age of 15 years, are planted in calcareous, slightly sandy soil on a south-facing slope. After undergoing malolactic fermentation in stainless steel vats, the wine is aged in 2.5 L Slavonian oak barrels for two years. The wine is then held in bottle for 8-10 months before release.