Maurizio Ferraro #SoloVino Grignolino 2020

Maurizio Ferraro's #SoloVino Grignolino is a 100% Grignolino from the Chiovende cru outside Montemagno, in the Monferrato hills of Piedmont. The vineyard — planted by Maurizio's grandfather Pietro in 1964 — faces east, and sits on the sandy, limestone-structured soils typical of the area. The vines are over 55 years old.

Farming is organic with no synthetic chemicals or irrigation. Fermentation is spontaneous with native yeasts, no temperature control, and no additives of any kind. The wine is unfined, unfiltered, and bottled with zero added sulfites. Maurizio has held to this protocol since 2006 and is a member of S.A.I.N.S., the French organization for producers who use no additives whatsoever.

Grignolino is an ancient Piedmontese variety whose name comes from the local dialect word for grape seeds — the grape carries more pips than most varieties, contributing firm, distinctive tannins despite the wine's light color and relatively lean body. It is one of the most site-specific and difficult grapes to vinify in Piedmont, prone to irregular ripening and challenging to handle in the cellar.

In the glass this shows the hallmarks of the variety: a pale ruby bordering on translucent, bright acidity, and tannins that punch above the color's weight. Aromas run toward wild strawberry, cranberry, rose petal, and white pepper, with a characteristic bitter almond finish. Serve slightly cool, around 58-62F.