Gajera

Description: Pinot Nero is a fairly recent grape to Piedmont, and its numbers are increasing steadily. This is also due to its important use in the production of quality sparkling wines and, in recent times, of ‘still’ red wines. Traditionally grown in Burgundy, Pinot Nero has over time become one of the most widely planted international grape varieties in the world. One of its most interesting characteristics is that it adapts very well to the most diverse soils. The first mention of the vine in Piedmont dates back to the end of the 18th century, when the region was strongly influenced by French wine-growing traditions and cultivation. Gajera is a name of a place referring to the shelter of magpies or jays (called “gaja” in Piedmonteses dialect) which used to be protected in the woods of the Natural Reserve of Valsarmassa.

Harvest: usually the harvest takes place the first week of September. After green harvest and careful selection, the grapes are hand-picked in early morning in little crates and delivered to the winery in the afternoon to preserve their integrity.

Vinification: after crushing and destalking the grapes, the must is sent to tem- perature controlled horizontal tanks. The alcoholic fermentation and maceration last around 5 days at an initial constant temperature of 20°C which gradually rises to 25°C. This process allows the wine to obtain excellent aromas and to extract the polyphenolic substances from the skin.

Ageing: the malolactic fermentation takes place immediately after the alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel tanks at a constant temperature of 18°C. At the end of the winemaking process, the wine goes into French barrique for about 16 months. The wine remains in stainless steel tanks for another month prior bottling, followed by 12 months of bottle ageing.

Pairings: beef tongue, pepper with tuna and anchovies, stewed snails, Filetto baciato (typical Piedmontese salami), aged cheeses.

Serving temperature: 18°C