Vespolina: A Rare Star in the Spotlight
Giacomo Colombera and Cristiano Garella’s latest project shines a spotlight on Vespolina, a grape variety that typically plays a supporting role in the Nebbiolo blends of northern Piedmont. This time, however, Vespolina takes center stage—and it’s no surprise that it rises to the occasion.
Cristiano and Giacomo are excellent winemakers, and Vespolina is a variety with everything needed to thrive on the big stage: tannins, acidity, and, above all, a wide range of aromas.
Stylistically, Vespolina offers immense versatility, working equally well as a profound table wine or a sophisticated fine wine. Cristiano and Giacomo have opted for the former, fermenting their Vespolina grapes spontaneously and briefly macerating them at moderate temperatures. The wine is aged in stainless steel tanks, with no fining or filtration.
Style & Aromas
Pepper, roses, dark berries, and Mediterranean herbs. Full-bodied, intense, and dense. It has drinkability from start to finish. The tannins provide structure, rounded and never aggressive, while the acidity gives direction without dominating. The finish is peppery, juicy, and persistent.
Technical Data
Grape variety: 100% Vespolina
Plant protection: Only sulfur, copper, and preparations based on plant or animal substances, not certified
Vineyard: At about 400 meters on iron-rich soil with a marine sand layer
Harvest: By hand
Fermentation: Spontaneous | wild yeasts in stainless steel tanks
Aging: 6 months in stainless steel
Filtration: No
SO₂: 50mg/l
Alcohol: 11.5% vol
Closure: Natural cork
Drinking temperature: 15-17°C
Optimal drinking window: From now until 2028
Content and price per liter: 0.75 l / (€20,25/l)
All the winemakers listed at Vinonudo work in their vineyards with compost, organic fertilizers, and natural preparations, and refrain from using herbicides, pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers.
