La Spinetta Pin Monferrato 2018

Region and Vineyards

The wine hails from the Monferrato DOC zone in Piedmont, an area with a rich tradition of blending native grape varieties. The vineyards are located in the rolling hills near Castagnole Lanze, where the soils are predominantly calcareous and the microclimate favors slow ripening and aromatic precision.

Nebbiolo brings structure, tannins, and floral lift, while Barbera contributes juiciness, acidity, and generous red fruit. The synergy of the two varieties is key to the wine’s elegance and depth. La Spinetta’s meticulous vineyard work ensures low yields and maximum expression of terroir.

Winemaking

Each variety is vinified separately, beginning with a 12-day maceration and alcoholic fermentation in temperature-controlled tanks. Malolactic fermentation occurs in French oak barrels, of which 30% are new and the rest second-use, followed by 12 months of aging in the same barrels.

After blending, the wine undergoes an additional 7 months of bottle aging before release. The approach allows for both varietal purity and integration, creating a wine that is vibrant yet harmonious.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Ruby red of medium intensity.
• Aroma: Ripe red fruit, lavender, and licorice, with hints of wild berries and crushed herbs.
• Palate: Fresh and silky, showing notes of pomegranate, underbrush, and fine tannins. The finish is generous, persistent, and refined.

Did you know?

“Pin” is named in honor of Giuseppe "Pin" Rivetti, the father of La Spinetta’s founders. This wine pays tribute to the family's roots, combining Nebbiolo, Piedmont’s noble grape, with Barbera, the region’s everyday hero, to create a wine of personal and regional identity.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled veal chops with rosemary – Echoes the wine’s herbal and floral nuances.
• Porcini mushroom risotto – Enhances the earthy tones and soft tannins.
• Duck breast with cherry sauce – A classic pairing for Nebbiolo’s structure and Barbera’s fruit.
• Aged Taleggio or Robiola – Piedmontese cheeses that complement the wine’s acidity and depth.

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.