Giovanni Rosso Ester Canale Vigna Rionda Nebbiolo 2017 DOCG
(Piedmont, Italy) - [WE 99] [WS 93] [JS 93]

About the Winery:
The Rosso family has farmed many famous crus of Serralunga d’Alba, most notably the Crus of La Serra, Broglio, Damiano and Vigna Rionda, Cerretta and Sorano since 1890. They were lauded for their meticulous attention to detail and sold their grapes to some of the most famous Piedmontese producers. However, in the early 1980’s Giovanni Rosso determined it was time for his family to have their own name recognized as producers of great wine.

Fast forward to 2001 when Giovanni’s son, Davide, joined the operation after finishing a postgraduate study in Burgundy. From then until Giovanni’s death, this father-son team became a focal point in the region. Now, taking lead of the house, Davide continues this upward trajectory in Piedmont (and now Etna in Sicily as well) by taking techniques he learned in Burgundy further to reveal the true terroir of their ancestral parcels.

Notes from the Winemaker:
The finest Nebbiolo by Giovanni Rosso, from the lands of Vigna Rionda. Judged "impeccably balanced" by Wine Enthusiast, compared in character to that of a "rose petal" by James Suckling, in Wine Advocate it is described as "lean and shiny as it drips from the bottle". But not always the most fitting definitions are the most precise, so Gary Walsh writes for The Wine Front: "A light caresses it and fills it with grace, yet it is palpable".

Ratings & Reviews:

99 Points & Cellar Selection - Wine Enthusiast:
"Absolutely compelling, this arresting wine opens with classic Nebbiolo aromas of rose petal, camphor, star anise and wild berries. Structured but also smooth as silk, the firm yet elegant palate features ripe Marasca cherry, blood orange, licorice and white pepper framed in tightly woven, ultrarefined tannins. Fresh acidity keeps it well-balanced while a saline note lingers on the long finish. Drink 2027–2042." - Kerin O'Keefe (Nov 2021)

93 Points - Wine Spectator:
"Bright cherry and raspberry flavors are enhanced by floral, eucalyptus, iron and tar notes in this burly red. Aggressive tannins are tightly wound, but not overly astringent, on the finish. Best from 2025 through 2050. 258 cases made, 75 cases imported." - BS (web only 2021)

93 Points - James Suckling:
"A lovely, juicy red with cherry, strawberry and orange peel. Medium to full body, tight and round tannins and a flavorful finish. Plenty of delicious fruit here. Really fine. Drink or hold." (Dec 2020)