Winemaker Bruce McGuire jumped at the chance to make his first Nebbiolo back in 1998 when a small amount became available from the Stolpman Vineyard out in Ballard Canyon. Bruce did not get a chance to make a second edition until this 2004 vintage when a small amont was available from this vineyard, a vineyard rapidly gaining a good reputation for Italian varieties.
Nebbiolo is a true vintners challenge.Often described as the noblest grape of Italy, it is fond in the northern Piedmont region and is most familiar when bottled as Barolo and Barbaresco. One of the most finicky grapes to grow, Nebbiolo will reward careful site selection with big beautiful wines. Should the soil, exposure, or climate be less than perfect the vintner is handed truckloads of frustration in the form of under ripe grapes and thin, uninteresting wines.
The very high tannin and acid found in this grape meant a long time in the barrel (bottled in June of 2006) and then almost a year and a half of cellar time in the bottle before Bruce deemed the 2004 Nebbiolo ready for release. The tannins will continue to resolve and flavors will further develop through 2011. Try this beauty with a big dish of white truffle pasta or experiment with a variety of artisan cheeses from the Piedmont region.
2004 Stolpman Vineyard Nebbiolo: Suggested Retail 30.00 (750ml)
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