In the picturesque hills of Langhe in Piedmont, Italy, lies the historic Fontanafredda estate, a treasure trove of winemaking tradition, regal heritage, and exceptional wines. For over a century, Fontanafredda has stood as a symbol of the Piedmont wine culture, blending tradition with innovation. Join us on an immersive journey through the illustrious history, diverse grape varieties, terroir-rich vineyards, and the exquisite wines crafted by Fontanafredda.
Via Alba, 15 – Serralunga d’Alba (CN) Italia
Introduction: Unveiling the Essence of Fontanafredda
Nestled in the heart of the Langhe hills, Fontanafredda is more than a winery; it’s a living testament to the history and passion of Piedmontese winemaking. Established in the 19th century, this estate’s story weaves together the elegance of its wines, the majesty of its vineyards, and the indomitable spirit of its founders.
The History of Fontanafredda: A Royal Legacy
Subsection: The Birth of a Wine Kingdom
The tale of Fontanafredda begins in 1858 when the estate was founded by King Vittorio Emanuele II, the first King of Italy. The King’s passion for wine led to the acquisition of the property, transforming it into a royal estate dedicated to winemaking. Fontanafredda became a vineyard kingdom, where the King’s vision merged with the renowned terroir of Langhe, giving birth to a legacy that would shape Piedmontese wine culture for generations.
Subsection: The Evolution
Over the years, Fontanafredda evolved into a beacon of innovation while preserving its historical significance. The estate changed hands and saw various phases of development, but its commitment to quality winemaking remained unwavering. Under the stewardship of visionary winemakers and a dedication to sustainable practices, Fontanafredda continued to thrive, showcasing the magic of Langhe in every bottle.
The Vineyards of Fontanafredda: An Ode to Terroir
Subsection: The Mosaic of Langhe Terroir
Fontanafredda’s vineyards are a testament to the diversity of Langhe’s terroir. Each parcel of land carries a unique expression that forms the backbone of the estate’s acclaimed wines.
Serralunga d’Alba: Situated in the Barolo region, this vineyard boasts a terroir rich in limestone and clay. The Nebbiolo vines here produce the majestic Barolo wines, displaying power, depth, and the classic Nebbiolo characteristics of red fruit, tar, and roses.
Barolo: This vineyard is another stronghold for Nebbiolo cultivation. It enjoys a mix of marl, limestone, and sandstone soils that contribute to the nuanced and elegant Barolo wines.
La Rosa: Dedicated to Nebbiolo and Barbera, this vineyard thrives in clay and sandstone soils. It’s the birthplace of Fontanafredda’s Langhe Nebbiolo and Barbera wines, offering vibrant red fruit flavors and a charming balance.
La Lepre: This vineyard is known for its unique microclimate that favors the cultivation of Dolcetto and Moscato. The wines from this terroir are approachable, with Dolcetto showcasing a dark fruit profile and Moscato offering floral and fruity notes.
Polla: Home to Fontanafredda’s Gavi and Langhe Chardonnay, the Polla vineyard enjoys limestone and clay soils. The white wines produced here are characterized by freshness, minerality, and a delicate balance of flavors.
Grape Varieties at Fontanafredda: The Symphony of Piedmontese Wines
Subsection: A Palette of Piedmontese Grapes
Nebbiolo: The king of Piedmontese grapes, Nebbiolo reigns supreme at Fontanafredda. Known for its role in creating the noble Barolo wines, Nebbiolo showcases red fruit, floral aromas, and a distinctive tannic structure.
Barbera: Another pivotal grape, Barbera is celebrated for its vibrant acidity and fruit-forward profile. Fontanafredda’s Barbera wines are an ode to its versatility and charm.
Dolcetto: Dolcetto contributes to Fontanafredda’s lineup with wines that are juicy, fruity, and easy to enjoy. Known for its approachability, Dolcetto wines capture the everyday essence of Piedmontese life.
Moscato: Moscato vines, particularly in the La Lepre vineyard, bring forth Fontanafredda’s delightful and aromatic wines. Moscato wines are beloved for their floral aromas and sweet, fruity character.
Chardonnay: Chardonnay finds its expression in Fontanafredda’s white wines, reflecting the estate’s dedication to crafting elegant and well-balanced Chardonnay-based bottles.
The Wines of Fontanafredda: Elegance in Every Bottle
Subsection: The Symphony of Fontanafredda Wines
Barolo Serralunga d’Alba: A regal wine from Fontanafredda, Barolo Serralunga d’Alba epitomizes the estate’s dedication to Nebbiolo. It’s a wine of depth, structure, and the noble Nebbiolo essence.
Barbera: Fontanafredda’s Barbera wines, whether as a classic or in a more modern style, offer a delightful interplay of acidity and fruitiness, making them versatile and enjoyable.
Dolcetto: The Dolcetto wines from Fontanafredda represent the authentic essence of Piedmontese daily life. They offer approachable fruitiness, making them ideal for casual occasions.
Moscato d’Asti: The Moscato d’Asti wines are a journey into the fragrant and sweet world of Fontanafredda. They exude floral and fruity aromas, making them perfect for desserts and celebrations.
Gavi: Fontanafredda’s Gavi is a white wine that reflects the elegance of the estate. With its fresh acidity and mineral character, it’s a prime example of the potential of the Gavi appellation.
Conclusion: Fontanafredda—A Legacy of Elegance
Fontanafredda stands as a beacon of Piedmontese winemaking, blending royal heritage with the exquisite terroir of Langhe. Its history is interwoven with the tapestry of Italy’s regal past, and its wines continue to tell the story of the Piedmontese terroir.
From the iconic Barolo to the vibrant Barbera and the charming Dolcetto, Fontanafredda’s wines capture the essence of Piedmont. The estate’s dedication to sustainability and quality is a testament to its commitment to both tradition and innovation.
A visit to Fontanafredda is not just a wine experience; it’s an immersion into a world where wine is an art form. Fontanafredda is a place where the legacy of a royal past meets the elegance of Piedmontese winemaking, and where every bottle tells a timeless tale of terroir and tradition.
The Wines
2021 Moscato d’Asti Moncucco
The Fontanafredda Moscato d’Asti Moncucco 2021 is an aromatic delight that captures the essence of the Moscato grape. This half-bottle version is perfect for a sweet escape. Bursting with fragrant notes of ripe peaches, orange blossoms, and a touch of honey, this wine entices the senses with its fruity bouquet. On the palate, it’s a refreshing journey with a gentle effervescence. Juicy apricot and luscious sweetness define the experience, leaving a lasting impression.
2018 Briccotondo Dolcetto
The Fontanafredda Briccotondo Dolcetto 2018 is a ruby-red beauty that exudes elegance and approachability This wine greets you with enchanting aromas of red berries and violets, making it a delightful prelude to what’s to come. The palate is a harmonious blend of dark cherries, plums, and a hint of spice, creating a smooth and well-balanced wine with a medium body.
2021 Gavi di Gavi
The Fontanafredda Gavi di Gavi 2021 is a crisp and elegant white wine that showcases the essence of the Gavi grape variety. With notes of green apples, white flowers, and a subtle citrus undertone, this wine is a bouquet of freshness. Clean and refreshing, it unveils flavours of green apple, zesty lemon, and a mineral finish that lingers on the palate, making it a perfect companion for seafood or a warm day.
2020 Barbera d’Alba DOC Raimonda
The Fontanafredda Barbera d’Alba DOC Raimonda 2020 is a dark and complex red wine that embodies the Barbera grape’s potential. The wine opens with enticing aromas of dark fruits, blackberries, and a subtle hint of vanilla from the oak ageing. Medium-bodied and well-structured, it offers ripe fruit flavours with a touch of oak, balanced by a vibrant acidity, making it a versatile choice for various culinary pairings.
2017 Barolo DOCG
The Fontanafredda Barolo DOCG 2017 is a majestic wine, representing the noble Barolo varietal in all its glory. With a deep garnet-red colour, it presents a complex bouquet of dried roses, dark cherries, hints of tar, and exotic spices. This full-bodied and structured wine offers a rich palate with flavours of black fruits, liquorice, and a long, tannic finish. Its ageing potential is remarkable, promising an ever-evolving experience for those who cellar it.
