"Etichetta Bianca" Carema 2018

750ml

Overview

Luigi Ferrando Carema "Etichetta Bianca" 2018 is a distinguished Nebbiolo-based wine from the Carema DOC region in northern Piemonte, Italy. The "Etichetta Bianca" (White Label) is one of the winery's flagship wines, renowned for its delicate yet complex expression of the Nebbiolo grape. Carema, a smaller and lesser-known DOC, produces wines that are lighter in body than their Barolo or Barbaresco counterparts, with a distinct minerality that reflects the region's mountainous terroir. The 2018 vintage offers a balance of fruitiness, floral notes, and earthy characteristics, with a refined structure that evolves beautifully with time.

Vinification and Aging

• Fermentation: The grapes were hand-harvested and fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, preserving the vibrant fruit character while allowing for the natural expression of Nebbiolo.
• Aging: After fermentation, the wine was aged for around 18 months in large oak barrels, which contributes to its complexity and smooth tannin structure. The aging process enhances the integration of the wine’s flavors, allowing them to evolve into a more harmonious and refined profile.
• Bottling: Luigi Ferrando Carema "Etichetta Bianca" 2018 was bottled without fining or filtration to preserve its natural purity, ensuring that it remains expressive and true to its origin.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: The wine has a beautiful, translucent ruby-red color, indicative of its youthful vibrancy and classic Nebbiolo character.
• Aroma: On the nose, Carema "Etichetta Bianca" 2018 offers a bouquet of red berries, such as cherry and raspberry, complemented by floral notes of rose and violet. Subtle aromas of earthy minerality, tobacco, and a hint of leather add further depth and complexity.
• Palate: On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins and bright acidity. The fruit flavors are lively and fresh, while the earthy and floral notes add nuance to the flavor profile. The wine finishes with a touch of spice and a long, mineral-driven aftertaste, showcasing its mountain terroir.

Food Pairing

This wine pairs exceptionally well with traditional Piedmontese cuisine, such as braised meats, risotto with mushrooms, and aged cheeses. It also complements grilled lamb, roasted meats, and hearty pasta dishes like tagliatelle with truffle or ragù.

Serving Recommendations

• Serving Temperature: Best served at 16–18°C (61–64°F), which helps to express its full aromatic range and balances the acidity with the soft tannins.
• Decanting: Decanting is recommended, especially for older bottles, to help the wine open up and reveal its intricate layers of flavor.

Aging Potential

Luigi Ferrando Carema "Etichetta Bianca" 2018 has excellent aging potential, with an optimal drinking window from 2023 to 2030, and it may continue to evolve beautifully beyond that. Its aging potential is bolstered by its well-integrated tannins and vibrant acidity, which will allow it to develop further complexity over time.