At a glance

Producer

Valfaccenda

Region

Italy, Piedmont

Grape variety

Nebbiolo, Barbera, Croatina (likely blend)

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$20-$30

Tasting profile

Red cherries, raspberry, light spice, with fresh herbal notes

Evolution: Develops more complex tertiary notes of leather, dried herbs, and subtle earth

At peak: Balanced fruit and tertiary complexity with integrated tannins and fine acidity

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, characteristic of Piedmont Reds

Tannins

Medium, fine-grained

Alcohol

13.5%

Aging potential

8-10 years with proper cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2030

Optimal window

2024 to 2032

Current status

Early drinking, approachable

Current condition

Fruit forward with fresh tannins, some primary aromatics

The blend of Nebbiolo and Barbera offers enough structure and acidity for mid-term aging. The 2022 vintage in Piedmont with moderate temperatures supports good fruit maturation and balanced acidity, allowing peak drinking approximately 5 years post vintage.

Food pairing

Grilled meats, mushroom risotto, aged cheeses, roasted vegetables, traditional Piedmontese dishes like tajarin or bagna cauda

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — To soften tannins and open up aromatics for best expression

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Use of cover crops, integrated pest management, limited chemical inputs, water-efficient drip irrigation, partly recycled packaging

Valfaccenda employs sustainable viticultural methods consistent with regional efforts to reduce environmental impacts. Packaging aims to balance quality and environmental responsibility. While not fully organic or biodynamic certified, the producer adopts various sustainability initiatives reducing energy and water use with careful vineyard management to preserve terroir and ecosystem health.