Monsecco Sizzano | 2016

A nice little gem from a glorious vintage, Sizzano is a tiny Alto Piemonte appellation near the right bank of the Sesia River, between Ghemme and Fara. Its lower-lying vineyards sit on glacial soils mixed with sand and clay. Here, Nebbiolo—locally called Spanna—takes on a juicier, less austere personality than Barolo and is typically blended with Uva Rara and Vespolina. Aged in Slavonian casks and used French barriques, Monsecco’s 2016 is speaks Nebbiolo softly, without the big lip-smack of tannin. Uva Rara and Vespolina bring the juice, while fine lines of acidity carry everything toward a dry, satisfying finish. A brilliant alternative to Barbaresco or Langhe Nebbiolo, this Sizzano is a total winner. ~Allegra Angelo