Albarossa

The Albarossa is a relatively unknown red grape variety first obtained in 1938 by Giovanni Dalmasso by crossing Nebbiolo and Barbera, in an attempt to create a single grape variety having the characteristics and qualities of the two main Piedmont grapes, the Albarossa grape is also known as Incrocio Dalmasso XV/31. From investigations on the DNA carried out a few years ago, it emerged though, that the true “father” of the Albarossa grape is not the famous and noble Nebbiolo, but the lesser known Chatus (also called Nebbiolo di Dronero), an Alpine native grape very little cultivated.

After a long period of experimentation, in 2001 Albarossa was registered among the grape varieties suitable for cultivation in the provinces of Asti, Alessandria and Cuneo in Piedmont, arousing the interest of many wine makers, including very famous names, because of its characteristics and the ability to produce great wines with ageing potential.

The Albarossa berry is small, ellipsoidal, black with waxy, thin, large, red-violet skin. The bunch is medium, pyramidal, medium compact, winged with a medium, pentagonal, five lobed leaf.

The Albarossa vine requires dry soils, preferably hills with calcareous soils, rich in microelements, and Albarossa wines are red wines with intense ruby red color, with a vinous nose with spicy and of red fruits like cherry notes. On the palate the wine is full, lively, suited to ageing and can produce great wines.