Roero bianco DOCG 2021

S. Bordthäuser 12.7.2020

The Azienda Agricola Valfaccenda was founded in 2010 by Luca Faccenda and his partner Carolina Roggera in Canale. On the steep and sandy hills of the Roero, Luca and Carolina exclusively cultivate the autochthonous Nebbiolo and Arneis grape varieties - in the firm knowledge that only grape varieties with native roots are able to authentically reflect their origin in the bottle. The two hectares owned by the estate are located around the winery near Canale, further areas on the hills Le Rocche, the landmark of the Roero, as well as in Vezza, Madonnna di Loreto in Canale, and San Grato in Santo Stefano are cultivated in lease. The soils of Roero are made up of sand, which in ancient times formed the seabed of the Gulf of Padania, sometimes mixed with clay sediments. In 2014, Luca Faccenda registered the farm for organic certification to allow his vines the best conditions for the authentic expression of Roero. 

The Valfaccenda bianco is a cuvée of the two sites Loreto and Mompellini near the chapel Madonna di Loreto. The different characteristics of the sites in terms of altitude, soils, strength and orientation are the basis for the entry-level wine of the farm. Partly pressed, partly rape-fermented, the proportions of these lots change from year to year to achieve the greatest possible balance and harmony. Bottled at waning moon in the spring after harvest, it comes to market the following fall. The first vintage was filled in 2010.

Bright lemon yellow with light and green reflections

The Roero Arneis is carried by a large portion of salted almonds at the beginning. Williams Christ pears go amazingly well with it. Melissa, sage, thyme and mint come harmoniously to the rescue. But bergamot and kaffir lime leaves also strike out in a green, tart direction. In a pleasant way, it doesn't seem remotely fruity. The tart aromas are in exactly the right place. Hints of cold smoke, as well as white pepper and coriander seeds complement this very successfully. Subtle vegetal nuances reveal fennel and artichoke.

On the palate, the Piedmontese wine is completely different. The fruit is literally in the juice. The combination of tart and tart-fresh components is a complete success. The fruit also plays a subordinate role on the palate. The positive bitter substances make this wine really terrific in its drinking flow and have a very animating effect. With fine phenols, it has structure without showing heaviness. It is compact on the palate and lives from a slight astringency. The acidity clearly enhances the drinking flow. In the finish, too, it is more in the spicy, vegetal direction.