Vi Nicola Winery
Vi.Nicola belongs to a new generation of small Piedmontese projects that consciously break with traditional ideas without abandoning their regional origins.
The collective of three young winegrowers from the Alta Langa region around Castino was born from the idea of producing wines that are significantly lighter, fresher and easier to drink than the classic, powerful wines of Piedmont. The focus is on the "Cinque Gradi" wine, a naturally alcohol-reduced wine with around five per cent alcohol by volume - but expressly without technical dealcoholisation. Instead, Vi.Nicola favours an early harvest in the high-altitude vineyards of the Alta Langa in order to preserve lower sugar levels, high freshness and a lively acid structure.
The vineyards are located at an altitude of around 600 metres. The Alta Langa is characterised by calcareous and marly soils and strong temperature differences between day and night. These conditions allow not only the production of excellent sparkling wines, but also the production of wines with moderate alcohol, fine flavours and clear tension. While classic Piedmont is often associated with structured Nebbiolo or Barbera wines, Vi.Nicola deliberately seeks a different interpretation of Piedmontese drinking culture: uncomplicated, light-footed and contemporary. The project hits a nerve, as younger consumers in particular are increasingly looking for wines that are less heavy, aromatic and easy to drink. Vi.Nicola combines this modern idea with the scenic and climatic potential of the Alta Langa and thus shows a rather unusual but exciting side of Piedmont.
© Images: Vi Nicola Winery