At a glance

Producer

Paolo Scavino

Region

Langhe, Piedmont, Italy

Grape variety

Nebbiolo

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$40-$50

Tasting profile

Notes of red cherry, tar, rose petals, with hints of earth and spice beginning to develop

Evolution: Fruit components will integrate more with secondary forest floor and leather aromas over the next 5-7 years

At peak: Complex bouquet of Nebbiolo classic aromas with polished tannins and elegant finish

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high acidity providing freshness and balance

Tannins

Fine-grained and well-structured

Alcohol

13.5%

Aging potential

Good aging potential up to 15 years from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2020 to 2028

Optimal window

2017 to 2030

Current status

Approaching early maturity

Current condition

Showing good development with evident tertiary aromas beginning to emerge

Paolo Scavino Langhe Sorriso is based on Nebbiolo grapes from the Langhe area but is a more approachable and earlier maturing style compared to their Barolo bottlings. The 2013 vintage has good fruit concentration with balanced acidity and tannins that allow evolution but with moderate aging period typical of Langhe DOC level Nebbiolo wines.

Food pairing

Pairs nicely with roasted meats, truffle dishes, aged hard cheeses, and mushroom risottos

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — To allow the fine tannins to soften and to enhance aromatic complexity

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Employs integrated pest management, water conservation techniques, energy-efficient cellar operations, and eco-friendly packaging

Paolo Scavino focuses on sustainability to reduce environmental impact through vineyard management and winery processes. While not certified organic or biodynamic, their sustainable farming practices and energy use reductions score fairly positively. Packaging is lightweight glass and recycled materials. The wine’s carbon footprint is mitigated by local sourcing and focused market distribution in Europe.