Tenuta il Nespolo “Vino da Sete” Vino Rosso, Asti, Piedmont, Italy 2023

FROM THE PIEDMONT GUY

THE WINE: The vineyards are composed of calcareous-clay soils that present chalky-white in the hottest months of summer. The vineyard sources for this co-ferment are planted on slopes with a partially northern and thereby cooler exposure, producing grapes with less structure and sugar that yield easy-drinking, chillable red wine. A quirky characteristic of this wine is its small percentage of 40- year-old Sangiovese vines, a rare sight in Piedmont. 55% Barbera 35% Freisa 10% Sangiovese

“Vino da Sete” translates as “wine of thirst,” or as the French say, “vin de soif.” This bright, crunchy red boasts a medium-ruby color. Aromas of strawberry, currant, and a touch of fresh leather complement the wine’s zippy palate. Perfect for an aperitivo, barbecue with friends, or pizza night. Serve with a slight chill.

THE PRODUCER: Luca Amerio is a youthful man whose quiet demeanor belies his inventive winemaking style. His family’s ancestral lands are situated in Moasca, a tiny village resting on the southern flank of the province of Asti. Moasca is that rare spot where Asti’s two iconic DOCG zones, Moscato d’Asti and Nizza Barbera, overlap. Now at the helm of his family’s estate, Luca draws from his family’s old-vine plantings in the heralded limestone-clay soils of Asti to produce both classic, appellation-based wines and fresh, appellation-defying bottlings. Chief among the latter is “Vino da Sete,” the estate’s edgy riff on vin de soif composed of Barbera, Freisa, and Sangiovese. Today, Luca’s professional training and his ingenuity are on thrilling display as Tenuta il Nespolo marches into a bright new era.