“Valmaggiore” Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC 2023

Az. Agr. Sandrone Luciano | Piedmont
Az. Agr. Sandrone Luciano | Via Pugnane 4 | IT 12060 Barolo

05173423 · 0,75 l · 45,33 €/l · Price (DE) incl. VAT, excl. Shippingavailable immediately

When Luciano and Luca Sandrone first laid eyes on the concave hillside of Valmaggiore in the 1990s, it was love at first sight. It was not just the history that captivated them – in the 19th century, the Nebbiolo grapes from this vineyard dictated the price for the entire region – but above all the unique combination of sandy soils and the microclimate of this natural amphitheatre. In Vezza d'Alba, on the left bank of the Tanaro in the Roero, lies this south-facing single vineyard with extremely steep slopes, where soft sandy soils lend the Nebbiolo that finesse and elegance for which the Roero region is famous.

A medium-bright ruby red with garnet highlights. The nose reveals aromas of juicy cherry, raspberry, wild strawberries and violets, accompanied by notes of blood orange, liquorice and a hint of leather. On the palate, it is juicy and well-structured, with ripe, fine-grained tannins and an almost salty edge that underpins the lovely core of fruit. Redcurrants and cherries dominate, underpinned by mineral notes derived from the sandy soil. The final is clean and slightly salty on the palate – an elegant, understated Nebbiolo that expresses all the grace and sophistication of this historic vineyard and is sure to gain in complexity over the next 15 years. SUPERIORE.DE

"A bright ruby red with garnet-red highlights. On the nose, notes of orange, watermelon and raspberries, with hints of violet and a touch of spice in the background. Fresh and juicy on the palate, with fine tannins, well-balanced, and a medium-length finish." Falstaff

"The 2023 Nebbiolo d'Alba Valmaggiore is a very lovely, aromatic wine. Crushed flowers, ripe red fruits, cherry, cinnamon, rose petals and sweets characterise this silky, fragrant Nebbiolo. With its inherent sweetness and medium body, the 2023 is clearly reminiscent of Pinot." Vinous

"A blend of cherry, cinnamon and earthy notes. This red wine is elegant, yet slender and firmly structured. A touch of astringency graces the finish, where the fruit is initially subdued. Stylish." Wine Spectator

"The Luciano Sandrone 2023 Nebbiolo d'Alba Valmaggiore displays aromas of dark fruit with hints of grilled herbs, tar, aubergine skin and black olives, reminiscent of a hot growing season. On the palate, the wine is quite slender and of medium length. This is a rather approachable vintage that can be enjoyed in the near future." Wine Advocate

"A complex wine with aromas of redcurrants, red cherries, liquorice and dried flowers on the nose. Light-bodied, it offers flavours with an overall firm structure and a crisp, well-balanced finish." James Suckling

"Valmaggiore is one of Roero's most renowned sites but it was not immune to the devastating hail in 2023. Sandrone lost approximately 25% after being hit just after flowering. From the remaining production, the team has achieved a finessed and pretty wine. Scents of mint, tobacco and orange potpourri waft throughout. Red berry depth and purity define the palate, and earthy mineral notes add intrigue, while taut tannins bring tension. All well defined with everything in its proper place." Decanter