“Solea” Bianco Langhe DOC 2023

Roagna | Piedmont
Az. Agr. I Paglieri | Loc. Paglieri 9 | IT 12050 Barbaresco

The fact that one of Italy's most fascinating white wines is produced in the kingdom of Nebbiolo is one of the most beautiful paradoxes of Piedmont. Even more paradoxical: it grows on Pira, the legendary monopoly position that is actually reserved for monumental Barolo. Luca Roagna has planted Chardonnay here, not far from the new winery – a statement of freedom in the midst of tradition. 80% Chardonnay and 20% white Nebbiolo make up the cuvée in the 2023. The vinification follows old European principles: Pre-fermentative oxidation, then spontaneous fermentation in wooden vats with the vineyard's own yeasts for ten days. Matured for two years on the fine lees in neutral oak – without any racking.

Pale golden yellow with greenish reflections. The nose is waxy and complex, almost reminiscent of great Chenin Blanc: fennel pollen and artichoke meet quince, khaki and yellow pear, interspersed with marjoram and dried wild herb hay. That unmistakable Roagna signature on the palate: no trace of creaminess, instead crystalline precision, stony texture and a chalky-saline tension that carries the wine with fine bitterness into the long final. Only around a thousand bottles – for connoisseurs who have understood that true greatness knows no colour. SUPERIORE.DE

"The 2023 Solea is an unusual blend of 80% Chardonnay and 20% Nebbiolo, vinified off the skins. Aromatic, bright and focused in the glass, the Solea has so much to offer. Lemon peel, chalk, mint and light tropical notes are all beautifully sculpted. This is such a distinctive white." Vinous