Cascina Val del Prete (“Farmhouse of the Valley of the Priest”) is a third-generation wine producer set in a beautiful amphitheater of vineyards in the Roero, between Alba and Torino in Piemonte. Giovanni Roagna now runs things, with ongoing help from his father, Mario. They farm organically, with some biodynamic practices. Much of the Roero is known for its sandy soils, but the Roagna’s part is geologically closer to Barbaresco than to other parts of the Roero, with more clay and thus more powerful wines as a result.
'Bricco Medica' is 100% nebbiolo from a single plot at the crest of the amphitheater. Fermentation with 15% whole clusters was in concrete for 25-30 days. Élevage for 18 months likewise happened in concrete vats. The wine shows true, ruby-red nebbiolo color in the glass. It has a pretty nose, with spicy / herby tones. There are warm red fruits and medium tannins on the palate, with excellent texture and length. Drink it now in a Burgundy or other large wine glass, or cellar it for 5-10 years. It’s excellent with sausages or moussaka.
