Roero bianco DOCG 2023

Wine description for Roero bianco DOCG 2023 from Valfaccenda

In the gentle hills of the Roero, where the landscape of Piedmont unfolds its quiet poetry, Valfaccenda cultivates the Arneis grape with a dedication that is reflected in every drop of its Roero bianco. This wine epitomises the renaissance of a once almost forgotten indigenous grape variety, which is now one of the crown jewels of Piedmontese viticulture.

Visual impression

In the glass, the 2023 vintage presents itself in a radiant, deep golden yellow, reminiscent of the autumn sun shining over the vineyards of Madonna di Loreto. The viscosity of the wine traces slow, deliberate paths along the wall of the glass - an indication of its structure and concentration.

Nose

The flavour unfolds in fascinating layers: At first, juicy flavours dominate Boskop apples and sun-ripened Apricotswhich combine with the sweetness of Quince jelly combine. Behind this, the nutty flavour that is so characteristic of the Roero terroir is revealed in the form of freshly roasted Hazelnuts - a reminiscence of the hazelnut plantations that share the slopes with the vineyards. The wild Herbs of Piedmont - thyme, sage, rosemary - weave a subtle carpet in the background. With the addition of air, the spectrum expands to include spicy Anis and the exotic flavour of candied ginger - a complexity that testifies to the careful selection of the grapes from the different micro-terroirs.

Palate

The wine shows impressive precision on the palate. The chalky minerality of the soil manifests itself in a striking structure with a clear grip that anchors the wine on the palate. The mid-palate is characterised by a juicy richness that is enveloped in a creamy, yeasty texture - the result of traditional ageing until the waning moon in spring. This almost chewy substance lends the wine a tactile dimension that makes it an ideal accompaniment to the down-to-earth cuisine of Piedmont. The balance between acidity and body testifies to the craftsmanship of Valfaccenda's winemakers, who bottle the wine unfiltered to preserve its authentic expressiveness.

General information

The grapes for this characterful Arneis come mainly from two vineyards near the hamlet of Madonna di Loreto: Loreto and Mompellini. The different exposures and soil structures of these plots give the wine its multi-layered complexity. Vinification combines tradition with cautious innovation: some of the grapes are de-stemmed, while others are fermented as whole bunches - a ratio that the winemakers sensitively adjust depending on the character of the vintage. After fermenting for around a month, the wine matures until the waning moon in spring before being bottled without filtration - a commitment to authenticity and terroir expression.

Food pairing suggestions

This Roero bianco calls for dishes that are on a par with its texture and complexity. It harmonises perfectly with Piedmontese cuisine: Vitello tonnato with its creamy tuna sauce finds an equal partner in wine. The nutty flavours of the wine correspond wonderfully with a classic Risotto ai funghi porciniwhile its minerality and structure also lend itself to richer dishes such as Rabbit in white wine sauce or Tajarin with butter and sage can accompany it. For a simpler meal, you can use fresh Goat cheese whose acidic note emphasises the fruity component of the wine.