Introduction:
The 2017 Ioppa Ghemme “Santa Fe” is a meticulously crafted Nebbiolo blend (approximately 85% Nebbiolo, 15% Vespolina) from a historic hilltop vineyard in Piedmont’s Ghemme DOCG. Matured for several years in large Slavonian oak casks, it offers an elegant yet grounded expression of Alto Piemonte’s unique terroir.

Terroir:
The Santa Fe vineyard, planted in 1969, sits atop clay-rich soils with considerable granite sand content, elevating finesse and minerality. The gentle south-west exposure and cold Alpine-influenced conditions of Ghemme lend clarity, structure, and expressive floral depth. Ioppa’s approach emphasizes soft extraction and extended aging in large foudres to preserve Nebbiolo’s ethereal qualities.

Appearance:
Mid-range ruby—clear and luminous, with a refined glow that signals approachability despite its structure.

Nose:
Tightly wound and fragrant, offering layers of violet, strawberry, and dried rose petals, with an underlying sapid minerality. The bouquet is both delicate and inviting.

Palate:
Medium-bodied and elegant, with silk-touched tannins framing red cherry and plum fruit. A subtle wave of savory spice and fine acidity gives the wine life and poise, while its texture remains velvety through the mid-palate.

Finish:
Long and nuanced, echoing red fruit, gentle herbs, and a softly bitter edge—balanced, graceful, and subtly persistent.

Overall Impression:
The 2017 Ioppa Ghemme “Santa Fe” is a beautifully aromatic and refined expression of Alto Piemonte Nebbiolo. It strikes a rare balance between floral lift, fruit clarity, and structural precision—crafted for both appeal today and graceful evolution. The wine is drinking well now, with continued poise that makes it suitable for short-to-medium term cellaring.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): ~13%
Farming Practices: Organic, low-intervention viticulture
Producer Name: Azienda Agricola Ioppa
Old World / New World: Old World
Country of Origin: Italy
Region: Piedmont, Ghemme DOCG (Alto Piemonte)
Grape Varietals: Nebbiolo (~85%), Vespolina (~15%)
Vintage: 2017
Wine Style: Medium-bodied, elegant, youthful, with moderate aging potential (3–8 years)
Winemaking Techniques: Natural fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel (20–25 days), long maceration, aged 36–48 months in large Slavonian oak casks (25–30 hl), bottle-aged before release
Pack Size: 750 mL
Container Style: Glass bottle
Closure Style: Cork