At a glance

Producer

Antichi Vigneti di Cantalupo

Region

Colline Novaresi, Piedmont, Italy

Grape variety

Nebbiolo

Wine type

Red

Body

Light-bodied and Crisp

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$17-$25 (USD retail on release); secondary market: rare, $25-$40 depending on condition

Tasting profile

Subdued strawberry, blood orange, dried rose petals, faint anise, slight nuttiness. Tertiary notes likely emerging; freshness diminished.

Evolution: Lost primary berry and floral notes, now showing more savory and dried citrus nuance.

At peak: Most expressive youthful fruit between 2015-2017; now showing subtlety, elegance but less energy and aromatic clarity.

Structure

Acidity

High, backbone of freshness.

Tannins

Light, gentle for Nebbiolo—vinified as a rosato (rosé).

Alcohol

Typically around 12-13%.

Aging potential

Limited for rosé style—generally intended for 2-4 years, rarely beyond 8-10 years even in best cellars.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2015 to 2017

Optimal window

2015 to 2018

Current status

Drink or hold—near end of optimal freshness but still lively if well-stored.

Current condition

Bright fruit may have faded; secondary notes emerging, acidity should remain refreshing if well-cellared. May fade quickly from 2024 on.

‘Il Mimo’ is a Nebbiolo-based rosato meant for early drinking. Its delicate, aromatic profile is built on fresh fruit and acidity, which fade with time. By 2024, expect it to be subdued—older but potentially interesting for those who appreciate developed rosé styles.

Food pairing

Light antipasti, prosciutto, grilled vegetables, trout, fresh cheese, spring salads.

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Manual vineyard work, integrated pest management, limited chemical usage, estate practices focused on tradition and ecosystem health. Some solar implementation at the estate; lightweight glass bottles, recyclable corks.

Antichi Vigneti di Cantalupo is recognized for sustainable practices (low-impact viticulture, some energy/resource initiatives) but does not hold major green certifications as of the 2014 vintage. Use of eco-friendly packaging and traditional farming methods adds points. As a small, family-run estate, operations are energy-efficient compared to large commercial wineries. Transport to North America/Asia incurs additional carbon costs, but for European drinkers, footprint is relatively modest. Overall, a solid choice for sustainability within context, but not at the leading edge of formal certification.