Elio Sandri is one of the most traditional and reclusive growers in Monforte d'Alba. He has run Cascina Disa, bought by his father Giovanni in 1965, since 1981, when he made his first vintage. The estate covers about seven and a half hectares in the hamlet of Perno, farmed without synthetic chemicals and with minimal intervention.
The Riserva comes from the Disa vineyard around the farmhouse, where Nebbiolo occupies the south- and east-facing slopes. Nothing has changed in the cellar for decades: spontaneous fermentations in concrete, long ageing in large old Slavonian oak casks, no filtration or fining, sulphur added only before bottling.
2016 is one of the finest vintages in recent decades, fresh and long, producing Nebbiolo of great balance. Here it combines the exuberance of the fruit with the austerity of classic Barolo: cherry, rose, herbs, spice and earthy notes, firm tannins and a long finish. An artisanal Barolo to keep in the cellar for many years yet. With braised beef, finanziera or aged cheeses.
At a glance: Nebbiolo 100% · 14.5% ABV · 0.75 l · Elio Sandri, Monforte d'Alba (CN)