Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
Sarmassa is a 1 ha vineyard in the town of Barolo at 300 m, facing west and southwest. Its clay-silt soil contains 43.2% silt, 30.5% clay and 26.3% sand and is predominantly Sant’Agata Fossil Marl (TOV). The high clay and silt content improves water retention and helps reduce vine stress during dry years.
Plantings date from 1941 and 2000. Density is 3,700 vines per hectare with 1 × 2.7 m spacing, a vertical canopy and traditional Guyot pruning. The rootstocks are 420 A and K5BB, and yield is approximately 6,000–7,000 kg/ha.
Grapes
100% Nebbiolo, represented by the Lampia and Michet sub-varieties.
Vinification
The wine follows a traditional Barolo approach to Nebbiolo. Maceration is generally extended because the fruit tends to have softer tannins.
Technical data
The published alcohol for the 2022 vintage is 15%.
Tasting profile
The 2022 is full-bodied, warm and firm, with eucalyptus, dark spice, new leather and pine-forest aromas. Dried cherry, liquorice, tobacco and orange rind are framed by tightly wound, close-grained tannins.
The vineyard typically gives a more elegant Barolo that becomes approachable comparatively early. The 2021 shows dark spice, wild berries, camphor and botanical herbs, followed by Morello cherry, liquorice and blood orange, with refined tannins and fresh acidity.
Serving and pairing
Traditional partners are game and red meat. Its elegance also allows it to accompany an entire meal. At around nine to ten years after harvest, it can serve as a contemplative wine.
Vintage notes
The 2022 received 92 points from Kerin O’Keefe, with a drinking window of 2028–2034. The 2021 received 98 points and Cellar Selection from Wine Enthusiast, 97 points from Kerin O’Keefe, 96 points from Doctor Wine and 94.5 points from Guida Vitae – AIS.
Label / history
The area was formerly called Salmassa, a name probably connected with a nearby source of brackish water. The Sarmassa MGA name is used only in strong vintages.
