Vineyard and terroir

The Nebbiolo comes from Lanzavecchia family-owned vineyards on the mid-slopes of Serralunga d’Alba. The sites face south to south-west and are planted at approximately 4,500 vines per hectare, with Guyot training and yields of around 50 hl/ha. The vines average 25 years of age.

Grapes

100% Nebbiolo.

Vinification

The Nebbiolo is the last fruit harvested for Barolo. It is picked by hand, destemmed and gently crushed. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks, followed by 15–20 days on the skins according to the vintage. The wine is racked after alcoholic fermentation, and its retained warmth encourages spontaneous malolactic fermentation.

Ageing

Total maturation lasts 38 months. Approximately 18 months are spent in medium-sized Slavonian and French oak barrels, with the remaining period in tanks. The wine is also suited to prolonged bottle ageing.

Tasting profile

Garnet red with ruby highlights. The intense bouquet combines fully opened rose, violet and forest-floor nuances with cherries in alcohol, liquorice, truffle and tobacco. The palate is elegant, balanced and complex, with considerable body and good acidity. It can continue developing for at least 20 years after harvest.

Serving and pairing

Serve at 18–20 °C and open the bottle one hour beforehand. Pair with red meat, braised dishes, game, aged cheeses or traditional Langhe cuisine.

Label / history

Lirio was conceived for drinkers concerned with both wine quality and the complete production process. Traditional vinification is interpreted in a more approachable, modern Barolo style intended to work across a broad range of cuisines.