Those who love Barolos and Barbarescos do not have to resign themselves to enjoying their favorite varietal only on special occasions. There is plenty of terrific Nebbiolo in other Piedmont appellations; the DOC of Colline Novaresi in northwest Piedmont is a hidden gem that offers fabulous Nebbiolo wines at more affordable prices. Known here as Spanna, the grape flourishes in the region's terroir, which is characterized by high altitudes, alluvial soils and a moderate climate.
 
We have secured seven cases of a glorious, ethereal yet powerful Spanna crafted by the illustrious Vallana family at pre-tariff pricing. Get it while it lasts! 
 
One of Italy’s storied wineries, Vallana almost single-handedly put Alto Piemonte on the map with a series of iconic wines in the 1950s and 1960s. 
Today, Marina and Francis Fogarty, the 4th-generation descendants of Antonio Vallana, are restoring the Vallana name to greatness by replanting the family's historic vineyards and marrying tradition with innovation.
Like their ancestors, Marina and Francis often hold wines for years after bottling, yet charge prices similar to their neighbors' much younger wines.
(from importer notes)
 
An elegant, traditional, and Old World expression of Nebbiolo, the 2018 Vallana Spanna Colline Novaresi has heady aromatics of rose petals, cherries, cranberries, and truffles. The palate is medium-bodied, with flavors of cherries and raspberries entwined with notes of forest floor, leather, and tobacco. The finish lingers with notes of brambly cherries, a whiff of black pepper, and the merest hint of licorice. Bright acidity gives the wine lift and keeps the fruit characters fresh.

 Check out the press!
90 points, Wine Spectator:
"Cherry, cranberry, hibiscus and truffle aromas and flavors highlight this sleek red, which is racy even, with bracing acidity and a line of chalky tannins for support. Fine length."
  
Order the 2018 Vallana Spanna Colline Novarese between now and Monday, April 6th, at 4 PM. Orders will be ready for pickup on Wednesday, April 8th, after 4 PM.
CHEERS!