Grignolino Piemonte Fontanafredda 2003
This 2003 Denominazione di Origine Controllata red wine from Fontanafredda is crafted exclusively from Grignolino, a traditional Piedmontese grape variety frequently cultivated in areas such as Monferrato and Asti. For this specific release, the grapes are sourced from vineyards located in the municipalities of Vignale Monferrato and Frassinello, before being bottled at 13% alcohol.
Fontanafredda boasts a history rooted in Italian royalty. The estate was founded in 1858 by King Vittorio Emanuele II, Italy's first king after the unification, as a gift for his mistress and eventual wife, Rosa Vercellana. Their son, Emanuele Alberto, later developed the winery and released its first Barolo label in 1878. Today, the characteristic buildings on the property still display the brown and ochre stripes of the House of Savoy, serving as a visible reminder of its royal origins.
The estate holds a unique position in the region, as the entire property constitutes its own MGA and monopole-cru. With 120 hectares of vineyards set within a total area of over 300 hectares, it is the largest contiguous winery in Italy. Following a change in ownership in 2008, the modern era of Fontanafredda has been defined by a strong focus on sustainability, eventually making it the largest certified organic winery in Piedmont.
The wine originates from Piedmont, a prestigious wine region in northwestern Italy whose name translates to 'at the foot of the mountain'. Surrounded by the Alps and the Apennines, the area is defined by its dramatic, steep hills and a continental climate with cold winters, warm summers, and significant temperature shifts between day and night. The vineyards benefit from soils composed of calcareous marl, sandstone, clay, and sand, while the region's characteristic thick autumn fog protects the grapes and ensures a long, steady ripening period.
The history of the wine
Below, you can delve into the history of this wine — its producer, grape, area, and region.
Piedmont
Piedmont (which literally means "at the foot of the mountain") is located in northwestern Italy, surrounded by the Alps. It is considered one of the world's absolute most prestigious wine regions. The area is known for small, passionate, family-run wineries and a huge focus on terroir (how the soil and microclimate affect the wine).
Classic characteristics of Piedmont:
The royal wines: This is where the world-famous, complex and expensive red wines Barolo and Barbaresco come from (both made from 100% Nebbiolo).
Everyday heroes: In addition to Nebbiolo, the region is famous for the grapes Barbera (juicy, acidic and incredibly popular) and Dolcetto (dark, soft and fruity).
The white and sweet: Piedmont also makes the crisp white wine Gavi and the famous, lightly sparkling dessert bubbles Moscato d'Asti.
The landscape: Dramatic, steep hills – especially in the Langhe sub-area. The hills are often shrouded in thick morning mist in autumn, which protects the grapes and allows for a long, perfect ripening.
Gastronomy: An absolute mecca for food lovers. The area is world famous for the exclusive white truffles from Alba, hazelnuts and rich, simmered dishes that scream with a glass of local red wine.
When this wine was made, the world looked very different. Here are some of the stories that unfolded while this bottle quietly aged in its cellar.
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How it handles
you your wine
Storage
Store the bottle horizontally at 12–14°C and avoid direct sunlight, vibrations, and temperature fluctuations.
Opening
Allow the bottle to stand upright for 24–48 hours before opening to allow sediment to settle. Use a professional corkscrew and open carefully.
Enjoyment
Serve at 17–18°C and be patient – there is a great difference in how and how quickly wines open up when they are aerated.
GUIDE TO THE GOOD WINE EXPERIENCE
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