2015 Casalone La Capletta Grignolino

Region: Piemonte < Italy
Grapes: Grignolino
Vineyard/Cellar Stats: Organic farming, granite/limestone soil, fermented and aged on lees for two years in stone vats and stainless, then bottled unfined/unfiltered with 20ppm SO2; 13% ABV
Winemaker: Simone Berra

One of the oldest wineries in Monferrato, Casalone officially started in 1734 – they sold their first bottles at market in 1776!  The land and vineyards haven’t changed much since then and the Casalone family is still at the helm. I had the pleasure of tasting the wines in my SF backyard with Simone, the 22-year old winemaker, and getting the scoop on this lovely light red made of Grignolino – the Piedmontese grape you’ve never heard of, but you need in your life. Historically, Grignolino was considered THE greatest red variety of Piemonte for the complexity and delicate flavors, then brasher Nebbiolo came to town and stole the show. But we’re partial to the pale red Grignolino, which is subtle and charming, with red berries, thyme, licorice and loads of white pepper.   She is serious, austere and refined, with vibrant acidity and the propensity to blossom with air. Kind of like the nerdy wallflower who comes back as the hottest girl at your high-school reunion.  Best with food – pair with white meat, grilled fish or veggie pasta dishes.