A few decades ago, there were still several hundred hectares planted with vines in Coste della Sesia. Today, only thirty remain.
The reason for this decline was not the quality of the wines—which, in fact, have been praised in the annals of local viticulture since the 14th century—but rather the general exodus from the countryside. Many farmers left the poor and inhospitable region in the shadow of the Alps to seek better prospects in Turin.
Five of the remaining thirty hectares are cultivated by Carlo Colombera, together with his son Giacomo and Cristiano Garella. Their vines—mostly Nebbiolo, but also Croatina and Vespolina, the other two key varieties of the region—are rooted in porphyry soil and breathe in the cool air of the surrounding mountains.
The grapes are harvested by hand, fermented spontaneously without temperature control, and aged for 24 months. For the first ten months, each grape variety is matured separately in used oak barrels; afterward, they are blended and spend the remaining time in concrete tanks. This is a great wine at a very small price.
Style
Earthy, red-berried, fresh – the Coste della Sesia is a true child of its environment, shaped by the surrounding forests and hilly landscape. On the palate, it is direct and precise. The present tannins add liveliness and contribute to the wine’s elegance, while the acidity sets the pace for an inviting drinking flow. The finish is cool, with fine spice and red fruit.
Technical Sheet
Grape varieties: 65% Nebbiolo, 20% Croatina, 15% Vespolina
Plant protection: Only sulfur, copper, and preparations of plant or animal origin; not certified
Vineyard: Located at a forest clearing; vines root in sand and volcanic rock
Harvest: Manual
Fermentation: Spontaneous | wild yeasts in concrete tanks
Aging: 10 months in used barriques, followed by 4 months in concrete tanks
Filtration: None
SO₂: < 50 mg/l
Alcohol content: 12.5%
Closure: Natural cork
Serving temperature: 15–17 °C
Optimal drinking window: From now until 2030
Bottle size and price per liter: 0.75 l / (€21.60/l)
All winemakers listed on Vinonudo work in their vineyards with compost, organic fertilizers, and natural preparations, and abstain from the use of herbicides, pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers.
