Cascina ‘Tavijn Vino Rosso “Ottavio” (Grignolino) 2023 750ml

100% Grignolino. From estate parcels scattered about the steep hills of the Monferrato zone of Asti near the village of Scurzolengo. The Verruà family–Nadia and her mother Maria Teresa and her father Ottavio–farms the vines organically, tending and harvesting them entirely by hand. The grapes are destemmed with berries kept whole and gently pressed without breaking the skins, just enough to kick off fermentation in vat. Fermentations can be very lengthy in this cold cellar, where there is no addition of yeasts or sulfur and no temperature control; maceration is often as long as two months. The wine ages on its lees for a few months before being bottled without fining or filtering and with only a gram or two of sulfur if any. Papa Ottavio’s name and artistically rendered visage grace the label of this annual bottling.

• Country: Italy
• Region: Piedmont
• Size: 750ml
• Color: Rose

Varietal

Grignolino

Grignolino is a rare red grape variety native to Piedmont, Italy, primarily grown in the Monferrato region. The name comes from grignole, a local dialect word for “many pips” (seeds), which contributes to its high tannin content despite its light color. Historically favored in the region, Grignolino is now a niche variety, prized for its delicate yet structured character.

What makes Grignolino unique is its light-bodied appearance paired with unexpectedly firm tannins and bright acidity. It produces wines with pale ruby hues and aromas of red berries, rose petals, white pepper, and earthy notes. On the palate, it offers flavors of cranberry, sour cherry, and spice, with a crisp, almost nervy finish.

Unlike other Piedmontese reds, Grignolino is meant to be enjoyed young, though some versions age gracefully. It pairs well with charcuterie, tomato-based dishes, and roasted vegetables, making it a fantastic alternative to more well-known Italian reds.