Nestled close to the sea on a natural terrace of the Langhe hills, in Loazzolo close to Asti in northwest Italy, is the property of Borgo Maragliano. with 84 hectares of which 44 are vineyards. At 450 meters above sea level, Chardonnay, Pinot Nero (Pinot Noir) and Riesling flourish in 44 hectares of vineyards included in their 84 hectare property. A recent video chat with 5th generation winemaker and agronomist Carlo Galliano and his wife Silvia highlighted reasons why the terroir is unique. As a bonus, we sipped six sparkling wines that were a reflection of not only Borgo Maragliano’s sense of place, but its production method.
Five generations of farmers have tended the land in northwest Italy. The first written records of the family were dated 1790 when Giovanni, forefather of the Galliano family, was born. Having traveled extensively, Giovanni purchased the parcel of land in Loazzolo in 1850 with the belief that the potential of the area to cultivate vines was “the way forward.”
The area is crossed by the Marin, an onshore wind from the Mar Ligure that helps with the maturation of grapes and enhances their aromas, freshness and natural acidity. 22 hectares of Loazzolo vineyards benefit from sand-clay/limestone soil and optimal altitude and aspect. “The combination of climate and weather, its position and special soil are so important,” shares Carlo. Silvia, who takes care of the hospitality aspects of the winery, adds that “grains are grown, animals graze, hazelnuts are found on the property. It’s a very interesting place to make sparkling wines!”
Photo Credit: Borgo Maragliano
The sparkling wines of Borgo Maragliano are produced using Metodo Classico process whereby the second fermentation is in the bottle. Over 36 years ago, Dr. Corino, director of the Experimental Institute for Viticulture in Asti, evaluated the soil and climate characteristcs in Loazzolo. He suggested the “planting of experiemental vineyards of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to produce” sparkling wines using Metodo Classico. Carlo and Giusseppe Galliano agreed and met the challenge with “enthusiasm and dedication.”
“It was difficult. People liked the wine, but they also liked red and white still wines. We really believed in the potential of the varieties on these hills and were the first to start producing Metodo Classico wines in the area,” explains Carlo. In fact, in 2011, the Alta Langa DOCG was established for this style of wines.
“Every day is a new day with a new idea and new challenge. It’s a big dream.” Wines are vinified, bottled and packed by family members. They blend tradition and modernity with regards to techniques and methods and the rest is history. Borgo Maragliano Metodo Classico wines are distributed in 35 states.
The Sparkling Wines of Borgo Maragliano
Vibrant acidity, minerality and a fresh profile are just a few characteristics of the exceptional Borgo Maragliano Metodo Classico wines tasted. Each wine shared below is easily sipped without food, as an aperitif or throughout the meal. It’s time to pop the cork!
Francesco Galliano Blanc de Blanc, Alta Langhe 2019 ($49.99) is of Chardonnay from a single vineyard planted in 1983 on limestone soil. Expressive on the nose with stone fruit, Italian herbs, honey and nuts, this fresh, zesty, mineral driven bubbly pairs beautifully with smoked salmon blinis
100% Riesling comprises Federico Galliano Brut Nature Millesime 2019 ($71.99). Pure, direct aromas and flavors of mandarin oranges, lemon peel, beeswax, herbs and a sense of minerality led to a lingering finish. Tiny bubbles delighted my guests who sipped the Brut Nature as an aperitif.
Single vineyard grapes of Chardonnay from six vintages (2013–2018) were blended in Germana Beltrame Brut Nature S.A. IV Editione ($68.99). “The actual blending occurred after the 2018 vintage and only steel tanks were used,” states Carlo. With subtle notes of honey, Italian herbs and fruit, the wine is a brilliant expression of Chardonnay and the soil upon which the grapes were cultivated. Enjoy a glass or two with your favorite frittata.
80% Pinot Nero and 20% Chardonnay are included in Giuseppe Galliano Brut Nature Millesime 2018 ($54.99). 1988 was the first year of production of this spumante. With plenty of body from Pinot Nero and sophistication on the palate from Chardonnay, notes of brioche and lemon pair well with oysters and fresh seafood dishes.
Dogma Blanc de Noirs Brut Nature Millesime 2018 ($71.99) is 100% Pinot Nero that spent 48 months on the lees. Expressive berry flavors, notes of white pepper, toast and minerality led to a lingering finish. Open a bottle and share with friends…for any occasion.
Giovanni Galliano Brut Rose Millesime 2019 ($56.99) was a lush, flavorful finale to the tasting. A rose of Pinot Nero in all its purity offered notes of subtle smoke, strawberries and blueberries on the nose and palate as well as vibrant acidity and lively bubbles from the first sip to the last.
Hospitality experiences at Borgo Maragliano in the Langhe hills include personal tours and tastings. For more about these experiences, please visit their website.
Photo Credit: Borgo Maragliano
Cheers! ~ Cindy
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