il botolo
The Land
“The vineyards of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato constitute an outstanding example of man’s interaction with his natural environment, associated with the wine production activities and an authentic and ancient art of winemaking recognized throughout the world”
With this motivation, the vineyard landscapes of Piedmont Langhe-Roero and Monferrato were declared part of the Unesco World Heritage Sites in 2014.
Among these breathtaking hills, the “capital” of Barbera can be found: Nizza Monferrato.
Everywhere else in Piedmont, Barbera is almost invariably considered ‘second fiddle’ to Nebbiolo – but not here.
This grape variety has cultivated in this sub-area for over 500 years and is considered the highest expression of the denomination and the leading grape variety grown.
Due to the specially favourable microclimatic conditions, a ‘Nizza DOCG’ status was awarded to 18 municipalities in 2014.
The People
Roberto De Silva dreamt about Monferrato all his life.
This was the land his grandfather, whom he never met, came from – an incredible land, hand-worked by big and strong characters.
He learned about Monferrato as a child growing up; and it is here that he imagined himself one day, like his grandfather before him, working the land and producing high quality wines.
The dream came true in 2007 with the acquisition of 15 hectares in his beloved Monferrato, in the heart of what will become the DOCG Nizza.
Following his passing in 2012, the wife Diana De Silva took charge of the estate with the help of an all-female team and an unexpected moral support – that of a little mongrel (or “botolo”), found in the farm at the beginning of the adventure.
Its sympathy and generosity conquered everyone, and it was repaid with the name of the winery.
Il Botolo -both mascotte and company- might be small, but they have a great character!
The Wines
Barbera d’Asti DOCG
Made with local Barbera grapes from vineyards older than 25 years, it’s vinified in stainless steel to capture the variety fruity aroma.
Medium-bodied with a brisk acidity that masks perfectly the high alcohol content.
92 pts Luca Maroni
Nizza DOCG
Made only in the best vintages from grapes from a 40 years old vineyard; the ‘crown jewel’ of Il Botolo ages for at least 18 months in barrique and large oak barrels.
Powerful and intense, it has a great cellaring potential.
92 pts International Wine Challenge (Silver Medal)
