Nervi ConternoPiedmont, Italy

Nervi-Conterno, nestled in the beautiful Gattinara region of Piedmont, Italy, is a winery steeped in rich history and tradition. This winery has been producing exceptional wines for over a century, known for their elegance, complexity, and reflection of the unique terroir of the region.

A Historical Perspective

Nervi, the oldest winery in Gattinara, was founded in 1906 by Luigi Nervi. Luigi's vision and dedication to quality laid the foundation for what would become one of the most prestigious wineries in Piedmont. The estate spans over 27 hectares of vineyards, primarily planted with Nebbiolo, the noble grape variety of the region.

In 2018, Roberto Conterno of the famed Giacomo Conterno estate acquired Nervi. This acquisition marked a new chapter in the winery's history, bringing together two iconic names in Italian winemaking. Roberto Conterno's commitment to traditional methods and his expertise in Nebbiolo has elevated the quality and reputation of Nervi-Conterno's wines even further.

Terroir and Winemaking

The Gattinara region, located in the northern part of Piedmont, is renowned for its unique terroir. The vineyards are situated on the slopes of Monte Rosa, the second-highest peak in the Alps. This location provides a distinct microclimate with significant diurnal temperature variations, which are ideal for the slow ripening of Nebbiolo grapes.

The soil composition in Gattinara is equally significant. It is rich in minerals, with a high content of granite, porphyry, and iron. These elements impart a distinctive minerality and structure to the wines, giving them a unique character that reflects their origin.

Nervi-Conterno's winemaking philosophy emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the natural characteristics of the terroir and the grape to shine through. The grapes are hand-harvested and undergo a meticulous selection process to ensure only the finest fruit is used. Fermentation takes place in large, open-top wooden vats, followed by ageing in traditional large oak casks. This method preserves the purity of the fruit while allowing the wines to develop complexity and depth over time.

Wine Style

Nervi-Conterno wines are a true expression of the Gattinara terroir. The flagship wines are made from 100% Nebbiolo, known locally as Spanna. These wines are characterized by their elegance, complexity, and ageing potential.

Gattinara DOCG: The Gattinara DOCG is the cornerstone of Nervi-Conterno's production. This wine is known for its refined structure, with aromas of red fruits, roses, and a hint of spice. On the palate, it offers a perfect balance of acidity and tannins, with flavours of cherry, raspberry, and a touch of earthiness. It is a wine that evolves beautifully with age, gaining additional layers of complexity and nuance.

Gattinara Vigna Molsino: This single-vineyard wine comes from one of the estate's most prized plots. It is a powerful and complex wine, with intense aromas of dark fruit, tobacco, and leather. The palate is rich and full-bodied, with firm tannins and a long, persistent finish. It is a wine that can be enjoyed young but will reward those who have the patience to cellar it for many years.

Gattinara Vigna Valferana: Another exceptional single-vineyard wine, the Vigna Valferana, is known for its elegance and finesse. It offers a bouquet of red berries, violets, and subtle spices. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with fine tannins and a vibrant acidity that gives it a refreshing lift. This wine is a beautiful example of the purity and precision that Nebbiolo can achieve in Gattinara.