Carema (1974)

About this wine

This Nebbiolo from Carema presents a medium ruby-red color with garnet reflections. The nose offers delicate floral notes reminiscent of crushed rose petals, accompanied by subtle hints of spice. On the palate, it is smooth and velvety, with a well-balanced structure and a lingering finish. The unique terroir of Carema, characterized by terraced vineyards supported by stone pillars known as 'Pilun,' contributes to the wine's distinctive elegance and complexity. This traditional cultivation method not only enhances the wine's quality but also reflects the rich history and dedication of the local vintners.

About the grape

Nebbiolo, the sole grape used in the 1974 Cantina dei Produttori Nebbiolo di Carema and Ferrando Carema wines, is renowned for its late ripening and high acidity, making it well-suited for the unique terroir of Carema. In this region, Nebbiolo is traditionally cultivated using a pergola system called 'topia,' supported by stone pillars known as 'pilun,' which absorb heat during the day and release it at night, aiding in grape maturation. The challenging mountainous terrain necessitates terraced vineyards, where all vineyard work, including harvesting, is done by hand due to the steep slopes. This labor-intensive cultivation method contributes to the distinctive character of Carema's Nebbiolo wines.

Quick facts

• 🏔️ Carema's vineyards are terraced on steep slopes, supported by stone pillars called "pilun," which absorb heat during the day and release it at night, aiding grape ripening.
• 🍷 The Carema DOC, established in 1967, is one of Italy's smallest appellations, with only about 18 hectares under vine, making its wines rare and sought after.
• 🍇 Carema wines are predominantly made from Nebbiolo grapes, known locally as "Picotendro," and must comprise at least 85% of this variety.
• ❄️ Due to the cooler mountain climate, Carema wines tend to be less powerful, with slightly higher acidity than those from the Langhe, offering a more aromatic and delicate style.
• 👑 Historically, Carema wines were esteemed by the courts of Savoy, with Pope Paul III describing them as "an excellent and perfect beverage for princes and lords."

Palate profile

Producer

Cantina dei Produttori Nebbiolo di Carema was established in 1960 by ten local farmers in Carema, Italy, to preserve and promote the region's unique winemaking traditions. The cooperative now comprises over 100 members, with about 70 actively contributing grapes, all part-time growers dedicated to maintaining the area's viticultural heritage. Carema's vineyards are renowned for their distinctive terraced landscapes, featuring pergola-trained vines supported by stone pillars known as "pilun," which absorb and radiate heat to aid grape ripening in the cool alpine climate. The winery focuses exclusively on producing Nebbiolo wines, adhering to traditional methods that highlight the grape's elegance and complexity.