Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
The fruit comes from two sites: Serradenari, now a Barolo MGA and situated just above the summit of Bricco delle Viole, and N.S. della Neve, a higher-altitude location on the boundary between Serralunga d’Alba and Roddino. The original vineyard stood at 497 metres above sea level.
The vineyards are certified organic and managed sustainably. Ground cover and spontaneous cover crops have been used for almost 50 years to nourish and preserve the soils. Vineyard work involves substantial manual labour, while ongoing research focuses on monitoring and improving plant and animal biodiversity across the vineyards, fields and woodlands.
Grapes
100% Pinot Nero, including Burgundian massal selections called Pinot Fin and Pinot très fin.
Vinification
The 2024 grapes were picked between 9 and 12 September. Following careful manual selection, most of the fruit was destemmed. Maceration lasted approximately 20 days in vertical vats, followed by spontaneous malolactic fermentation.
Ageing
The 2024 wine was aged mainly in stainless steel and bottled on 16 June 2025.
Technical data
Bottle format: 0.75 L.
Tasting profile
The 2024 shows vivid aromas of cherry, raspberry and woodland berries, with a darker blueberry nuance. Subtle clove and freshly ground black-pepper notes add aromatic depth. The palate is fresh and finely structured, combining pure red fruit with lively acidity and soft, well-integrated tannins. Its texture is silky yet energetic, leading to a persistent, precise finish marked by vibrant fruit and delicate spice.
Vintage notes
The 2024 growing season began with a late winter and delayed mountain snowfall. Budbreak was recorded on 11 March and faced a frost threat one month later. Abundant rain from May created intense fungal pressure and required sustained vineyard work. Temperatures subsequently rose, making the season warm overall. A significant hailstorm struck the western slope between La Morra and Novello in early August. The estate-wide harvest ran from 30 August to 24 October and was repeatedly interrupted by rain. The vintage is expected to produce wines with fresh aromas, moderate alcohol and easy drinkability.
Label / history
In 1999, Aldo Vaira sought permission to plant Nebbiolo at the top of the Bricco. The request was denied at a time when the effects of climate change were not yet evident, turning the setback into an opportunity to explore Pinot Nero. The inaugural 2006 vintage was released under the name “PN Q497,” referring to the vineyard’s elevation of 497 metres. Working with Pinot Nero also reconnected Aldo with cellar gestures learned from his grandfather, knowledge that he subsequently applied to other wines.
