Designore

A historic producer, Cantina Delsignore was created out of the union of the Nervi and Del Signore families.

Overview

Hidden at the base of the Alps, the Alto Piemonte is an alpine paradise set amid forest-clad hills that overlook the Sesia river. One of Italy’s most important regions for Nebbiolo production, this little known, high elevation area has enjoyed a re-birth in recent years. The small handful of DOC and DOCG zones that have been created offer some of the most interesting handmade, terroir-driven examples of Nebbiolo.

Originally planted by the Romans in the 2nd Century BC, Gattinara is the largest and most well-known area of the Alto Piemonte. A small zone boasting some 100 hectares of volcanic and gravelly soil, the area has come to produce Nebbiolo as complex and inviting as its more famous counterparts in the Langhe.

The five hectares of the estate are planted to traditional varieties, most importantly Spanna di Nebbiolo. Everything is manipulated by hand, and aging follows the strict requirements of the area—24months in oak, with additional aging done in bottle prior to release.