On the mineral-rich mountains north of Milan, sitting just below the Alps, the Balgera family have been crafting small-production traditional Nebbiolo– locally referred to as Chiavennasca– wines for the past four generations. After being hand picked from 60 year old vines, the grapes are destemmed, lightly crushed and fermented with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel tanks where it sits for a year. The wine is then aged for 12 years in large Slavonian oak barrels, followed by an additional year in stainless steel before bottling. With aromas of bright and dense cherries and violet, the palate continues with impressively fresh fruit and acidity, complemented by hints of dry fig, alpine herbs, and a mature earthiness. Generous tannins with round edges, this nearly 20 year old wine is in its peak, and a steal at this price. Enjoy alongside Carbonade (Italian alpine beef stew) or Pizzoccheri (flat buckwheat pasta served with potatoes, cabbage, cheese, and butter).