A Nebbiolo that breaks away from the stereotype of being austere and difficult to enjoy when young. Instead, it is an incredibly approachable, welcoming and silky red wine from the very first sip. But let’s start from the beginning. We are in Monforte d’Alba, one of the most renowned and captivating villages in the province of Cuneo. Here, Diego Pressenda’s winery works the land with deep respect for tradition while maintaining a fresh and modern outlook. The name of this wine, “Il Donato”, is a heartfelt tribute to Grandfather Donato, who passed on both a passion for winemaking and a love for these hills to future generations. The vineyards grow in a natural amphitheatre bathed in sunshine, where marl and limestone soils provide the vines with everything they need to develop richness and depth. Made from 100% Nebbiolo, the grape here fully expresses its natural qualities, achieving a perfect balance between warmth and vibrant freshness. The grapes are harvested by hand and quickly brought to the winery. Vinification includes a traditional skin maceration of around ten days, the ideal period to extract colour and noble tannins without excessive harshness. The wine is then aged in French oak barriques for 14 to 18 months. This period in small oak barrels allows the wine to breathe and soften, smoothing the naturally firm edges of the variety. In the glass it displays a pale garnet-red colour, bright and transparent. The nose is warm and enveloping, opening with distinctive aromas of beeswax, fine wood and dried fruit. With a little aeration, intense spicy notes emerge, particularly black pepper and sweet tobacco. On the palate it is full-bodied and beautifully balanced. The silky tannins guide the wine with elegance and never overwhelm. The finish is long and persistent. Delicious already today, this Nebbiolo also boasts excellent ageing potential of up to eight years. Its structure and barrique maturation will allow it to evolve gracefully, developing increasingly complex tertiary aromas over time.