Renato Ratti 'Ochetti' Langhe Nebbiolo Piedmont

The Renato Ratti 'Ochetti' Langhe Nebbiolo is a distinguished expression of Piedmont's legendary Nebbiolo grape, offering wine enthusiasts an elegant and approachable alternative to Barolo at exceptional value. This classic Italian red wine showcases the masterful winemaking tradition of Cantina Ratti, sourced from ancient vineyards in the sandy hills of Roero and select plots in the Langhe district—vineyards that have been celebrated since the 1600s in the cellars of the House of Savoy. The wine presents a beautiful pale ruby color with an enticing bouquet of forest strawberries, raspberries, red cherries, and subtle hints of spice, violets, and truffle. Hand-harvested in October and fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel with approximately ten days of skin contact, Ochetti maintains the signature characteristics of Nebbiolo—silky tannins, bright acidity, and refined elegance—while offering immediate drinkability without extended aging. On the palate, this harmonious wine delivers velvety texture with layers of ripe Marasca cherry, dried herbs, and a pleasantly bitter finish that lingers gracefully, earning acclaim from critics including a 92-point rating from Kerin O'Keefe. The historic "soldier" label pays homage to the heroism of 18th-century Piedmontese regiments, making this wine as rich in heritage as it is in flavor. Perfect for pairing with pasta dishes, grilled meats, hard cheeses, mushrooms, and truffle-based preparations, Renato Ratti Ochetti Langhe Nebbiolo represents an outstanding introduction to premium Piedmont Nebbiolo.

Renato Ratti ‘Ochetti’ Langhe Nebbiolo Piedmont: SEO-Optimized Product Description

Process & Profile

Renato Ratti 'Ochetti' Langhe Nebbiolo is a distinguished single-varietal red wine from Piedmont, Italy, meticulously crafted from 100% Nebbiolo grapes harvested by hand in October from the sandy hills along the Tanaro River. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, with approximately ten days of skin contact to extract vibrant color and delicate aromatics, followed by malolactic fermentation in steel to preserve the wine’s fresh profile. This traditional method highlights elegance, balance, and drinkability, echoing centuries-old winemaking heritage dating back to the 1600s in the cellars of the House of Savoy.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Pale ruby red, characteristic of noble Nebbiolo with brightness and finesse.

• Aroma: A delicate, persistent bouquet featuring fine scents of wild strawberries, raspberries, and subtle spice; notes of Marasca cherry, dried herbs, and hints of truffle add complexity.

• Palate: Velvety texture, medium body, smooth and polished tannins, with a pleasantly bitter yet refreshing finish. The wine is both light and full, delivering layers of fruit and subtle earthy notes.

• Finish: Harmonious and elegant, with impressive length and a burst of blood orange on the finale in younger vintages.

What Makes It Special

• Historical Significance: Nebbiolo Ochetti boasts a lineage reaching back to the 1600s, celebrated in royal courts and renowned for its finesse and bold character.

• Terroir Expression: Grapes are sourced from the sandy hills of Roero and the Langhe, areas famed for imparting unique brightness, aromatic purity, and soft tannins to Nebbiolo.

• Signature Style: The wine is crafted with the goal of maximum elegance, freshness, and approachability, standing apart from heavier Piedmont reds yet capturing Nebbiolo's essential qualities.

• The Albeisa Bottle: Renato Ratti pioneered the use of the iconic Albeisa bottle in 1973, a symbol of the region’s uniqueness and winemaking identity.

How to Enjoy

• Food Pairing: Exceptionally versatile, ‘Ochetti’ complements a wide range of dishes, from classic Piedmontese agnolotti to truffled fondue, grilled or spit-roasted red meats, game, and gourmet Italian cuisine with spiced sauces.

• Serving Recommendation: Serve slightly below room temperature (16–18°C / 60–64°F) to accentuate its aromatics and silky texture.

• When to Drink: Perfect for immediate enjoyment thanks to its supple texture and freshness, yet will evolve gracefully with short-term cellaring.

Indulge in the authentic spirit of Piedmont with Renato Ratti 'Ochetti' Langhe Nebbiolo—a wine that delivers classic Nebbiolo appeal in an elegant, approachable style.

Frequently Asked Questions