What kind of wine is Gattinara DOCG “San Francesco” 2019 - Antoniolo?

The Gattinara DOCG “San Francesco” 2019 - Antoniolo is a red wine of great elegance produced in the heart of Alto Piemonte, an area that in recent years has regained the attention of enthusiasts thanks to its extraordinarily refined Nebbiolos. Made from 100% Nebbiolo grapes (locally called Spanna), this wine represents the most authentic expression of a territory rich in history and volcanic minerals. The result is a medium-full-bodied, fine, and balanced wine, capable of impeccably combining structure and freshness.

Vintage details

The 2019 vintage is considered one of the most harmonious for Gattinara. Regular weather patterns, with a warm but never excessive summer, allowed the grapes to ripen slowly, developing a perfect balance between sugars, acidity, and tannins. The harvest, carried out by hand in early October, yielded healthy and concentrated bunches, ideal for a wine destined for long aging.

Winemaking and aging

After harvesting, the grapes are destemmed and undergo traditional fermentation in steel, with a maceration on the skins for about 20 days. During this phase, delicate punch-downs allow the extraction of color and aromas without excessive aggressiveness. Aging takes place for about 30 months in large oak barrels, a fundamental step that softens the tannins and adds complexity without covering the freshness of the fruit.

Tasting notes

The soul of Gattinara DOCG “San Francesco” 2019 - Antoniolo reveals itself in a complex but always balanced tasting. It is a wine that speaks slowly, showing different nuances with each sip.

Color

Elegant and bright, its color is a clear and deep garnet, with orange reflections just beginning to emerge, an indication of future evolutionary potential.

Nose

The aroma is fine and clear, dominated by small red fruits, rose hips, and sweet spices. Notes of wet stone and a balsamic touch also emerge, recalling the volcanic origin of the soil. The bouquet evolves in the glass with accents of tobacco and hints of leather.

Palate

On the palate, it is full yet graceful, with dense and mature tannins that support an elegant texture. The marked freshness, typical of mountain Nebbiolo, provides verticality and a long, clean persistence, with hints of red fruits and slight mineral notes on the finish.

Food pairings for Gattinara DOCG “San Francesco” 2019 - Antoniolo

This Gattinara is an ideal companion for typical Piedmontese dishes and hearty but not overly fatty meats. It pairs perfectly with:

• Braised and roasted beef
• Tagliatelle with wild boar ragu
• Aged cheeses, such as Castelmagno or Parmigiano Reggiano
• Polenta with porcini mushrooms or meat sauces

Also enjoyable on its own, for those who wish to fully appreciate its nuances in a meditative tasting.

Storage and aging – how to store Gattinara DOCG “San Francesco” 2019 - Antoniolo wine

The Gattinara DOCG “San Francesco” 2019 - Antoniolo has an excellent aging potential. If properly stored, it can express its best even after 10-15 years from the vintage.

• Ideal storage temperature: 12-14°C
• Humidity: around 70%, to prevent the cork from drying out
• Bottle laid horizontally, away from light sources and vibrations

A brief decanting period before serving can help it fully open in the glass. Those seeking a wine capable of conveying Piedmontese tradition with elegance and authenticity will find great satisfaction in this bottle.