If you talk with a travel agent, they will tell you there are dozens of things to do and places to see in the picturesque commune of la Morra, with wine tasting at the top of the list. These rolling hills with rows and rows of vineyards and centuries-old hilltop villages with snow-capped mountains in the background certainly make for an awesome vacation spot.
The Ellena Winery is 15 hectares with only five under vine and eight hectares of hazelnuts, and, from 1966 sold their grapes to local co-ops. That all changed when Matteo took over in 2009. Today, three generations of Ellena’s work side by side producing impressive wines combining the old and the new.
Nascetta 2021
It was very popular until the late 1960s when plantings started to dwindle to a mere 10 hectares in 1995. These guys have been championing the varietal for decades and have increased plantings to match their enthusiasm for the varietal.
I had my first Nascetta a few weeks ago and was given a bottle to review.
A delightful, aromatic white wine from the Piedmont Region in northwestern Italy, a region known predominately Reds- think Barolo and Barbaresco.
Enticing aromatics of wildflowers, apples, tropical fruits, and honey.
The palate showcases citrus, apple, tropical fruits, and honey with subtle spices—impressive depth and complexity with an inviting mouthfeel balanced with crisp acidity.
Yes, my ‘first date’ with Nascetta will not be my last—an absolute delight to drink.
Cellar out to 2028
Pairings should include Fish, seafood, scallops, and fish- get the picture. It would also work well with rich chicken dishes, especially with fresh garden herbs. Also, consider salmon caviar and butter on a crusty French loaf.
Lange Nebbiolo 2021
This is what the region is known for, the noble Nebbiolo grape. The ruby red color shimmers in the glass enticing you to take a sip.
Lovely aromas of old-world charm wrapped in floral notes, cherries, orange peel, and fresh herbs draw you in.
The palate is inviting and elegant with layers of red cherries, red currant, and raspberries with fresh herbs and spices to round things out. There is a sense that everything is where it should be, with fine but grippy tannins, great balance, and a nice earthy/mushroom/tobacco note to finish. All this makes you want to take another sip. Go ahead, enjoy.
Cellar out to 2030 with confidence.
Pairings should include beef, lamb, chicken, turkey, and venison. Any dish with cooking herbs, and fresh tomatoes will work.
Barolo del commune di La Morra 2019
One whiff and you know its old world, if you are familiar with Italian wines, you will know its Barolo.
Intoxicating nose of interwoven layers of cherries, herbs, and floral notes. La Morra in all its glory. This has attitude and should be decanted 2 – 3 hours.
The palate is elegant and restrained with exceptional balance and complexity. Dried herbs and floral notes greet you before the seamless layers of cherries, cranberries, and dark raspberries take over. There are interesting notes of balsamic, earthy spicey cedar box that feature on a long finish. Definitely Barolo, definitely a pleasure to drink.
Cellaring to 2035 will reward your patience
Pairings will be like their Nebbiolo- beef, lamb, chicken, turkey, and venison. Any dish with cooking herbs, and fresh tomatoes will work.
Vine to Table 