The Nascetta
Grape
An indigenous white grape variety from the Langhe region of Piedmont, Italy, Nascetta is known for producing aromatic and structured wines with high acidity, offering flavors of citrus, peach, and herbs, along with a distinctive minerality. It was nearly extinct but has been revived in recent years.
Nascetta
Grape History
Nascetta is a white wine grape variety that is indigenous to the Piedmont region of Italy. It is primarily associated with the commune of Novello in the Langhe hills of the region. The history of Nascetta dates back several centuries, with records indicating its presence in the area as far back as the 19th century. However, by the mid-20th century, the grape had almost disappeared from vineyards due to its low yields and susceptibility to disease.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in Nascetta, thanks in part to the efforts of local winemakers and viticulturalists who recognized its potential to produce high-quality wines with unique and complex flavors. The grape is now being cultivated in a few select vineyards in the Langhe region, particularly around Novello, where it is prized for its ability to reflect the terroir of the area.
Nascetta is known for its aromatic profile, which typically includes notes of white flowers, citrus, and herbs. It is often used to make still, dry white wines that are crisp, refreshing, and well-balanced. Some producers also experiment with oak aging to add complexity and depth to the wines.
While Nascetta is still a relatively niche grape variety, its popularity is gradually increasing both in Italy and internationally. The wine has garnered attention for its distinctiveness and quality, and it is now considered a rising star among the white grape varieties of Piedmont.
In terms of its future, Nascetta's outlook appears promising as more producers recognize its potential and consumers seek out new and unique wine experiences. With its ability to produce wines of character and finesse, Nascetta has the potential to carve out a niche for itself in the world of wine and become a sought-after varietal in the years to come.
Introduction
Hello, my name is Franklin Laurel - Welcome!
I started drinking wine in 1992 when I was in my early twenties and recently married. Like many other young Southern Californians, it started out with White Zinfandel. As we were a couple of young DINKs just beginning life together, and on a budget, our go-to-wine was Sutter Home White Zinfandel, which tasted a lot like wine coolers and probably cost at the time $2.49. If we really were going to splurge, we would step it up and buy Beringer White Zinfandel for $2.99. Those were the days....
After a little time, we decided to get fancy. We stepped up our game and bought some wonderful 2-Buck Chuck from Trader Joe's. The Charles Shaw (Trader Joe's Exclusive Label) wine, also known as 2-Buck-Chuck extended our pallet into Reds for only $1.99 a bottle. Over the years we continued to grow in our understanding of wine (finally ran into some good wine) and we slowly kept buying better and better bottles.
Our first wine club purchase was from Kenwood's Vineyards, in Kenwood, California located in Sonoma Valley, right next to the famous Napa Valley. I began to learn about tobacco leather, and earthiness, and lots of other strange terminology when tasting their signature Zinfandels (of the red variety). So that is how it all began.
Fast forward a couple decades, and we have been members of five different wine clubs, and now have a passion for California's red wines. My favorite by far is Cabernet Sauvignon, while my wife fancies a good Syrah, Malbec, or Merlot - but she also loves the smell of a wine barrel room, which is all about the notes of Cabernet Sauvignon.
As I come across great wine resources and useful information that I find in planning my own wine trips, I will share here for anyone that might stumble across my humble website.
Cheers! - Franklin Laurel