SANTA CATERINA
Grazzano Badoglio AT, Italy (Piedmont)
"Arlandino"
Grignolino d’Asti DOC
Grignolino
We are thrilled to share this exciting grape variety with you. It has all the captivating flavors of the Nebbiolo grape but on a lighter frame for drinkability. Flavors are energetic with red fruits like cherry and pomegranate, alpine herbs, rose hip, and dry earthy undertones. A medium to light bodied wine with a lively minerality and freshness that accentuates the earth, spice, and leather of non fruit flavors.
POINTS OF INTEREST
This entry level Grignolino, sourced from a single parcel called Arlandino, is anything but entry level. The complexities of this light bodied wine are captivating. Owner Guido Alleva is fiercely passionate about this local grape and aims to elevate the quality to rival the other great wines of Piedmont. In the cellar, originally constructed by monks in961 AD, winemaker Luciana Biondo uses spontaneous fermentation with wild yeast to craft an energetic and expressive wine with a delicate color.
"Monferace"
Grignolino d'Asti DOC
Grignolino
The Santa Caterina estate is dedicated to expressing the most elevated style of Grignolino. "Monferace" is the flagship wine released 5 years after the vintage with 30 months in barrel. A structured wine with deep red fruits and cherry skin, woody tannins integrate into the natural grape structure highlighting toasted flavors and dried herbs. With a long and persistent finish, time will fully realize this wine’s great potential.
POINTS OF INTEREST
The name of this wine, Monferace, is significant. Monferace is also a local land project of twelve producers dedicated to producing the highest quality by restricting yields, carefully selecting cru vineyards, and requiring long aging in only the best vintages. This wine has won the coveted Tri Bicchieri award from the Gambero Rosso.
"Sorì di Giul"
Freisa d’Asti Superiore DOC
Freisa
A close sibling to the Nebbiolo grape, Freisa was once the most widely planted grape in the Piedmont. Freisa gets its name from its strawberry like aromatics and highlights the juicy red fruits that radiate from the glass. Hints of blood orange, bergamot, and licorice lie underneath these red fruits with tannins that are rounder than the Grignolino. A medium-full bodied wine with good texture and depth, all add up to a compelling finish.
POINTS OF INTEREST
"Sorì di Giul" is a wine dedicated to terroir and to family. "Sorì" refers to a sunny slope, highlighting the perfectly exposed hillside from where this wine is sourced. an "di Giul" means for Giulia, Guido's daughter who is active in the winery and helps oversee the property. As lovers of the great Nebbiolo, we cherish the opportunity to share the elegance and power of the Freisa grape, and Giulia’s favorite wine.
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"Illegale"
Monferrato Nebbiolo Superiore DOC
Nebbiolo
A pure Nebbiolo with poise and grace. Bright and juicy red fruits and flowers extend out of the glass with the strength of a ballerina. The tannins fit harmoniously in the mid-palate creating a finish that will develop seamlessly for years to come. The softness of the tannins make this a great alternative to Pinot Noir.
POINTS OF INTEREST
The name “Illegale,” made with 100% Nebbiolo, refers to the fact that the grape name, Nebbiolo, was not allowed to be listed on the label in the territory of Monferrato until the 2019 vintage. A strange political move in local legislation considering this grape has always been grown in this area. With naitve yeast fermentation and 12 months in neutral Slavonian Botti.
"Vignalina"
Barbera d’Asti Superiore DOCG
Barbera
This Barbera Superiore is sourced from a single vineyard of the best fruit, named in honor of the women of Tenuta Santa Caterina. Owner Guido Carlo Alleva’s mother and grandmother were both named Lina. The name translates as “Vineyard for Lina.”
POINTS OF INTEREST
This Barbera is immediately elegant with finesse and clarity on both the nose and palate. Accentuated by an equal amount of red and purple fruits like cherry, plum, and mulberry, the floral presence exists harmoniously with notes of warm cooking spice and subtle forest floor. The medium bodied wine is lively, with soft tannins and a refreshing but structured palate.