Synopsis, Our Opinion: A spartan Nebbiolo that was lite on flavor
and tannins.
Producer/Winery: Paolo Benassi; Tenute Sella; Lessona, Italy.
Grape Variety: Nebbiolo Blend – 80% Nebbiolo and 20% Vespolina.
Geographic Appellation,, Region, Country: Lessona; Piedmont, Italy.
Vintage: 2013
Price: $30.60 (with a 10% mixed case discount)
Purchased From: The Caviste Wine Shop; Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
Paired With: Venison meatloaf, hasselback potatoes and sauteed peppers, onions.
Tasting:
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Opened and decanted one hour before drinking. Clear, ruby color with much lighter red rim. Lighter than expected cherry, cinnamon and raspberry aromas. Slightly rough and rustic mouthfeel, light body and 80-grit texture. Subdued cherry and raspberry fruit with spice cake and peppery flavors. Lots and lots of bright acidity, much softer tannins than expected and a medium length very bitter cherry fruit finish. Somewhat disappointing because of its very light body and washed out flavors. After the pleasant bouquet we both felt the wine just fell flat and even on the third pour the tannins had no kick. We were much more positive about this wine paired with the venison meatloaf and Madeira sauce than sipping it without food after the meal. We called it a spartan Nebbiolo that was lite on flavor and tannins.
Photo from Tenute Sella.
Alcohol Content: 13%
Closure: Aluminium covered 50mm Natural cork.
UPC Code: 8 055112 190233
Imported by: deGrazia Imports; Chicago, Illinois.