Elio Grasso Barbera d'Alba "Vigna Martina" '21

The wines of Elio Grasso consistently reflect the traditional style of Piedmont (farmers first, winemakers second), and the family keeps terroir at the forefront while also adapting their winemaking practices and skills to the challenges of each vintage. Elio Grasso was originally in the banking business in the city of Turin, but, when his grandfather passed away, he returned to his roots. Since 1978, the family has been cultivating 18 hectares of hills surrounding Monforte d’Alba in Barolo, surrounded by another 24 hectares of forests and meadows. The winery is relatively small in scale, allowing the family to carefully cultivate their land with a focus on terroir.

Gianluca Grasso, Elio’s son, is at the winery’s helm, with assistance from the entire family; they have picked up where their ancestors left off, and they continue to grow grapes and produce wine, once again, with a focus on vineyard-specific sites for their Barolo bottlings as well as Barbera and Dolcetto, which are grown in the same highly acclaimed areas. Full of energy and passion, Gianluca works meticulously, and these qualities are reflected in his wines: structured with elegance, aromatic finesse, solid character, and exceptional aging potential, yet enjoyable in their youth.

Grasso’s “Vigna Martina” is made from 100% Barbera grown on sandy, limestone soils at an altitude of 380 meters. The vines average 35 years in age. The wine is fermented in stainless steel tanks, then aged in French barriques, followed by at least eight months in bottle before release. Powerfully aromatic and full bodied, with great elegance, precision, and depth on the palate. The wine is already delicious yet will age gracefully for a decade or more. Enjoy with red meats, pasta, and mushroom dishes.