La Spinetta Barbaresco Gallina 2018

Region and Vineyards

The Gallina vineyard is located in Neive, one of the three core communes of the Barbaresco DOCG in Piedmont. Facing due south at 250 metres above sea level, this cru benefits from abundant sunlight and ideal drainage, ensuring full ripeness of Nebbiolo while preserving its natural acidity. The soils consist of calcareous marl with high sand content, a composition that enhances the finesse and aromatic expression of the grape.

Gallina is known for yielding wines of balance, elegance, and depth, with softer tannins than those found in Barolo, yet no less structure. The sandy component of the soils contributes to a lifted bouquet, while the marl provides the backbone necessary for aging. This cru has become emblematic of La Spinetta’s style—expressive, floral, and terroir-driven—and is cultivated with meticulous care to preserve its identity and typicity vintage after vintage.

Winemaking

This 100% Nebbiolo is vinified with a focus on elegance and terroir transparency. The grapes undergo a 16-day maceration and alcoholic fermentation in temperature-controlled tanks to gently extract color and tannin. Malolactic fermentation takes place in French oak barrels, of which 20% are new and the rest second use.

The wine is aged for 18 months in barrel, followed by 8 months in bottle, allowing tannins to soften and aromatic layers to harmonize. The restrained use of oak and moderate extraction preserve the grape’s floral and red fruit character while lending structure for aging.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Light ruby red with delicate transparency.
• Aroma: Aromatically refined with notes of raspberry, rosehip, and fresh tarragon, showing both ripeness and herbal complexity.
• Palate: Harmonious and classic, with flavors of cherry, red currant, and subtle spice. The tannins are present and well-structured, framing a long, balanced finish with vibrant acidity.

Did you know?

La Spinetta was one of the first producers to elevate Gallina to single-vineyard status within the Barbaresco DOCG. Once part of blended crus, Gallina now stands as a benchmark for Neive’s potential to deliver precise, age-worthy Nebbiolo of great typicity and finesse.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Braised veal cheeks with truffle mash – The wine’s acidity and tannic grip cut through richness and enhance umami depth.
• Porcini mushroom risotto – A regional match for Nebbiolo’s earthiness and structure.
• Duck breast with cherry glaze – A classic pairing with the wine’s red fruit and herbal undertones.
• Aged Fontina – Enhances the wine’s finesse and brings out its subtle floral notes.

History of La Spinetta Estate

La Spinetta was founded in 1977 by Giuseppe (Pin) Rivetti in Castagnole delle Lanze, Piedmont. Initially focusing on Moscato d'Asti, the estate rapidly expanded its horizons. In 1989, the Rivetti family introduced their first red wine, Barbera Cà di Pian, followed by a Barbaresco in 1995, which significantly boosted their reputation.

Today, the estate is managed by Giuseppe's sons, Giorgio, Bruno, and Carlo Rivetti, who continue to innovate while respecting traditional winemaking practices. The Rivetti family's dedication to quality and their pioneering spirit have established La Spinetta as a symbol of excellence in the wine world.

Region and Vineyards

La Spinetta's vineyards are primarily located in Piedmont, a region celebrated for its noble grape varieties and prestigious wines. The estate boasts over 165 hectares of vineyards spread across different appellations. The vineyards in Castagnole delle Lanze are particularly noted for their Barbera and Moscato wines, while the vineyards in Neive, Barbaresco, and Grinzane Cavour are famed for their Nebbiolo grapes, the cornerstone of their celebrated Barbaresco and Barolo wines.

The estate's vineyards benefit from a unique terroir characterized by limestone and clay soils, providing an ideal environment for cultivating high-quality grapes. The meticulous vineyard management practices, including sustainable farming and low yields, ensure that the grapes reach optimal ripeness and express the distinct characteristics of their terroir.

Wine Range

La Spinetta produces a diverse range of wines, including Barbaresco, Barolo, Barbera, and Moscato d'Asti. Their Barbaresco and Barolo wines are highly acclaimed for their complexity, elegance, and aging potential. The Barbera d'Alba and Barbera d'Asti wines showcase rich fruit flavors and vibrant acidity. Additionally, La Spinetta's Moscato d'Asti is celebrated for its aromatic intensity and refreshing sweetness.

The estate also produces several single-vineyard wines, such as Barbaresco Gallina, Starderi, and Valeirano, which are highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs. Each wine in their portfolio is a testament to the Rivetti family's commitment to quality and their deep connection to the Piedmont terroir.

Did you know?

La Spinetta's logo, featuring a rhinoceros, is inspired by an artwork by the famous German painter Albrecht Dürer. This distinctive logo symbolizes the estate's strength, resilience, and commitment to quality.