Vietti Derthona Timorasso Colli Tortonesi DOC 2022

Winery Background and History

Vietti Winery, located in Castiglione Falletto in the heart of Italy’s Piedmont region, has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. Founded by Carlo Vietti in 1873, the winery has remained family-owned for generations, establishing a reputation for producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Langhe area. In the 1960s, under the leadership of Alfredo Currado, Vietti gained international acclaim for its single-vineyard Barolo crus and the revival of the Arneis grape, a nearly extinct white varietal at the time. Today, the winery continues to innovate while honoring its traditional roots, producing a diverse range of wines that showcase the complexity and elegance characteristic of Piedmontese viticulture.

Producer and Winemaker

The Vietti estate is currently managed by Luca Currado, a direct descendant of the founding family. Luca, who has been at the helm since the late 1990s, serves as both the winemaker and managing director. He brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the region’s viticultural heritage. Luca’s winemaking philosophy emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the natural expression of the grape and terroir to shine through. His commitment to quality and innovation has solidified Vietti’s position as one of Piedmont’s premier wineries, with wines that are celebrated both domestically and internationally.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The grapes for the Derthona Timorasso are sourced from vineyards located in and around Monleale, a commune within the Colli Tortonesi area of southeastern Piedmont. These vineyards are situated at elevations ranging from 250 to 300 meters above sea level, benefiting from southeastern to southwestern exposures that provide optimal sunlight for grape ripening. The soil composition is predominantly rich in limestone and clay, offering excellent drainage while retaining sufficient moisture and nutrients to support vine health. The microclimate of the Colli Tortonesi is characterized by warm days and cool nights, especially during the growing season. This diurnal temperature variation is crucial for developing the aromatic complexity and preserving the acidity of the Timorasso grapes. The combination of soil richness and favorable climatic conditions contributes to the distinctive minerality and structure of the Derthona Timorasso wine.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Timorasso

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2022 Derthona Timorasso undergoes a meticulous vinification process to preserve and enhance its varietal characteristics. After hand-harvesting, the grapes are gently pressed, and the must is clarified through natural sedimentation. Fermentation spans approximately four weeks and is conducted in a combination of ceramic vessels, large oak casks, and stainless steel tanks. This diverse approach allows for a nuanced development of flavors and textures. Notably, the wine does not undergo malolactic fermentation, maintaining its crisp acidity. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for ten months on its fine lees across the same variety of vessels—ceramic, stainless steel, and oak. This lees contact imparts complexity and a subtle creaminess to the palate. Prior to bottling, the wine is carefully filtered to ensure clarity while preserving its delicate aromatic profile.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

Approximately 13%

Tasting Notes

The 2022 Derthona Timorasso presents a clear, intense yellow color with green hues. On the nose, it offers fruit scents of pear and peach, accompanied by floral nuances of acacia and hawthorn, along with typical honey notes. After 2-3 years, the mineral notes become more intense, sometimes emphasized by a characteristic scent of hydrocarbon, which refines the wine. On the palate, the wine is dry, warm, soft, and very well balanced, without any edges. It has a long lingering finish with good fresh acidity. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This Timorasso pairs exceptionally well with a variety of dishes. Its vibrant acidity and complex flavor profile make it an excellent companion for seafood dishes, such as grilled prawns, seared scallops, or linguine with clams. It also complements poultry dishes, particularly those with creamy sauces or herbal seasonings, like chicken Alfredo or herb-roasted turkey. For cheese pairings, consider aged goat cheese or semi-hard cheeses like Asiago, which harmonize with the wine’s minerality and fruit character. Additionally, the wine’s structure and acidity can stand up to richer dishes, such as risotto with porcini mushrooms or veal piccata.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the aromatic complexity and textural nuances of the 2022 Derthona Timorasso, it is recommended to serve the wine at a temperature between 10-12°C (50-54°F). Using medium-sized white wine glasses will allow the bouquet to develop fully. Decanting is not necessary; however, opening the bottle about 30 minutes before serving can help the wine to open up and express its full range of flavors.

Storage and Aging Potential

While the 2022 Derthona Timorasso is enjoyable upon release, it also has the potential to develop additional complexity with short-term cellaring. When stored under optimal conditions—away from direct light, at a consistent temperature of around 12°C (54°F), and with moderate humidity—the wine can evolve over the next 3 to 5 years. During this time, expect the development of more pronounced tertiary notes, such as honey, toasted nuts, and a richer mouthfeel, enhancing the overall complexity of the wine.