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VALMAGGIORE Nebbiolo d’Alba 2016

 

Tasting notes

The classic cool 2016 vintage gave the Valmaggiore more structure than is typical for this warm, sandy site in the Roero.

It is both more florally expansive and tighter in the nose, with a spicy note that accentuates the lovely dark fruit aromas.

The 2016 Valmaggiore has evolved positively over the last few years, with the tannins softening on the palate but retaining the very fresh, vibrant acidity and the smooth, long finish.

As is normal for cooler vintages from this beautiful south-facing amphitheater, it will require a few more years of cellaring to fully integrate.

 

Ratings for the vintage 2016
Kerin O'Keefe 94 points
James Suckling 91 points
Vinous 95 points
Weinwisser 18/20 points
Wine Advocate 94 points 
Wine Spectator 90 points
Wine&Spirits 90 points

 

Download wine description

 

Evolution of the vintage 2016

In 2016, the winter was mild and not snowy. The first weeks of the year were unusually dry. Precipitation, especially rainfall, came only in February. Spring was cool, with numerous rainshowers.

The lack of winter cold caused an early budding but after its early start, the vegetative cycle de-accelerated.  Flowering and fruit set took place slightly later than average, but occurred evenly, thus positively influencing the productivity of the vintage.

The summer was a season of back-and-forth. The first heat came at the end of June, and from then on, a constant back-and-forth between short periods of warmth and sudden storms which brought cooler temperatures. In August the rhythm changed, and a period of sustained heat resulted in beautifully consistent bunches.

The slowing of the vegetative cycle was consistent through the summer, and therefore the veraison began 13-15 days later as compared to 2015. This delay influenced the final phases of maturation and the picking times.

The last part of the month and all of September gave us milder days and the typical autumn weather began in early September, characterized by warm days and cool nights.

The extremely long vegetative cycle and relatively late harvest period in 2016 resulted in exemplary fruit that give long-lived wines of great character and excellent site differentiation.

Harvest took place from October 1st until 10th.

 

Vintage

 

sibi et paucis

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