Introduction: The Vallana name has been synonymous with great wine in Alto Piemonte since 1787. Today, the fifth generation — led by Francis (Ph.D. in Viticulture and Oenology) alongside his mother Giuseppina and sisters Marina and Miriam — continues the same unhurried, arch-traditionalist approach that put this region on the map. The Colline Novaresi Spanna is 100% Nebbiolo, here called by its local name, vinified in concrete and aged in large oak casks with minimal intervention.

Terroir: Vallana's vineyards sit at 400 meters on steep terraces in the village of Maggiora, more than 100 miles north of Barolo at the foot of Monte Rosa. The soils are ancient glacial sediment and volcanic porphyrite — distinctly acidic, unlike the alkaline limestone of the Langhe — producing lighter, more aromatic, and remarkably age-worthy Nebbiolo. The 2018 vintage was warmer than usual, lending more generous fruit than cooler years.

Appearance: Pale-to-medium garnet with a translucent, luminous quality — characteristic of Alto Piemonte Nebbiolo.

Nose: Expressive and aromatic — cherry, cranberry, hibiscus, and violet lead alongside rose petal, dried herbs, mint, and a distinctive truffle and earthy mineral note.

Palate: Medium-bodied with bracing acidity and sleek, chalky tannins. Flavors of red and black fruit, spice, and savory earthiness move across the palate with elegance and persistence. Fermentation in concrete followed by six months in large oak casks (5–12 hl) adds subtle depth without obscuring the wine's natural freshness and mineral character.

Finish: Long and fine-boned, with a chalky mineral fade and lingering red fruit, dried herbs, and a pleasant bitter cherry note. Built for the table.

Food Pairings:
🥩 Meat: Braised rabbit with herbs, roasted lamb with rosemary, or classic Piedmontese brasato al vino rosso.
🥦 Vegetarian: Truffle tagliatelle, porcini mushroom risotto, or aged Parmigiano Reggiano with honey.
🧀 Charcuterie Board: Aged Grana Padano, Taleggio, cured bresaola, fig preserves, and toasted walnuts.

Overall Impression: A quietly exceptional and undervalued Alto Piemonte Nebbiolo from one of the region's oldest and most honest estates — lighter in body than a Barolo but no less complex, with piercing acidity, mineral precision, and aromatic finesse that define great mountain Nebbiolo. The 2018's warmth gives it generous fruit; the terroir gives it structure. Drink now through 2030. Serve at 62–65°F.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 13%
Farming Practices: Practicing organic; sustainable viticulture; old vines; hand harvested in small baskets; massal selections preserved to protect old clones
Producer Name: Antonio Vallana e Figlio (Giuseppina Vallana, Francis, Marina, and Miriam)
Old World / New World: Old World
Country of Origin: Italy
Region: Colline Novaresi DOC, Alto Piemonte, Piedmont (Maggiora; 400 meters elevation)
Grape Varietals: Spanna (Nebbiolo) 100%
Vintage: 2018
Wine Style: Dry Red — Medium-bodied, with the distinctive Alto Piemonte Nebbiolo profile: lighter in body and color than Barolo, with higher natural acidity, more ethereal aromatics, and chalky mineral precision from acidic volcanic soils. Elegant and age-worthy rather than powerful or extracted. 
Winemaking Techniques: Hand harvest; 24-hour cold soak; spontaneous fermentation in concrete tanks; aged six months in large oak casks (5–12 hl); lightly filtered before bottling
Pack Size: 750ml
Container Style: Glass bottle
Closure Style: Cork

 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."