Indulge in the exquisite elegance of Travaglini Gattinara, a masterpiece of Italian winemaking crafted from 100% Nebbiolo grapes in the prestigious Gattinara DOCG region of Piedmont. Nestled in the volcanic soils and cooled by Alpine breezes, Travaglini's vineyards yield wines of unrivaled complexity and minerality. Aged for over three years, including 30 months in Slavonian oak, this ruby-red wine boasts flavors of wild berries, ripe cherries, and delicate spices, complemented by its signature floral notes of roses and violets. Celebrated for its distinctively curved bottle design, which doubles as a natural decanter, Travaglini Gattinara stands as a timeless symbol of tradition and innovation. Perfectly structured yet approachable, it pairs beautifully with hearty Italian cuisine or can be savored on its own for an unforgettable tasting experience.
Process & Profile
Travaglini Gattinara is a distinguished red wine produced in the Gattinara DOCG area of Piedmont, Italy—a region synonymous with winemaking excellence. This wine is primarily made from Nebbiolo grapes (locally called Spanna), with vines thriving on mineral-rich volcanic soils enriched by granite and iron. The vineyards, positioned on south- and southwest-facing slopes at altitudes of 270 to 400 meters, enjoy optimal sun exposure, ensuring the perfect ripeness of the grapes.
The meticulous production process includes fermentation in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures to preserve the wine's aromatic complexity. Aging is done traditionally, first in large Slovenian oak barrels, followed by smaller oak barrels, for a minimum period of three years. This dual-stage aging imparts a refined character and balanced structure to the wine.
Tasting Notes
This wine captivates the senses with its vibrant garnet red hue and orange undertones, a hallmark of Nebbiolo's aging potential. The bouquet is enchanting, revealing layers of ripe cherries, raspberries, violets, and rose petals, complemented by spicy and balsamic undertones. On the palate, Travaglini Gattinara offers an elegant balance of freshness, fine-grained tannins, and vibrant acidity. The flavors of small red fruits, liquorice, and earthy minerals culminate in a long, lingering finish with subtle truffle and iron nuances.
What Makes It Special
Travaglini Gattinara stands out not only for its quality but also for its distinctive bottle design, created in 1958 to facilitate sediment collection during pouring without decanting. This unique shape, combined with dark glass to protect the wine from light exposure, underscores the producer's commitment to enhancing the aging process. The volcanic terroir of Gattinara imparts a mineral elegance and lively acidity, distinguishing it from Barolo and Barbaresco wines. Unlike its counterparts, Travaglini Gattinara is more approachable in its youth while still offering excellent aging potential, often exceeding 10 years.
How to Enjoy
For the best experience, serve Travaglini Gattinara at a temperature of 18–20°C (64–68°F). This versatile wine pairs beautifully with hearty dishes such as braised meats, wild game, and mushroom risottos. It also complements hard cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano and pastas with red sauces. For a truly indulgent pairing, savor it alongside Piedmont's famed truffle dishes, as the wine's earthy profile harmonizes beautifully with the truffle's richness.
Elevate any meal or celebration with Travaglini Gattinara—an elegant expression of Nebbiolo's timeless charm and the rich winemaking legacy of Piedmont.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main grape variety in Travaglini Gattinara?
Travaglini Gattinara is made predominantly from 100% Nebbiolo grapes, which are locally known as Spanna. This grape variety is celebrated for its expressive aromas and tannic structure.
How does Travaglini Gattinara compare to Barolo and Barbaresco?
While Barolo and Barbaresco also use Nebbiolo grapes, Travaglini Gattinara differentiates itself with its granite and iron-rich soils, producing wines with softer textures and floral, earthy aromatics. Additionally, Gattinara wines typically require more oak aging, enhancing their complexity and longevity.
What does Travaglini Gattinara taste like?
Expect a bright garnet color with aromas of violets, cherries, and earthy undertones. On the palate, it is robust, warm, and rounded, with vigorous tannins and a savory finish. Notes of ripe fruit, ash, and tamarind may also emerge, making it a richly layered and elegant wine.
What is the recommended aging period for Travaglini Gattinara?
Gattinara wines must age for a minimum of 3 years, with at least 1 year in oak barrels. For the Riserva designation, the wine is aged for at least 4 years, including 2 years in oak.
How long can I cellar Travaglini Gattinara?
Thanks to its high tannins and acidity, Travaglini Gattinara has an excellent aging potential, often improving for 10 to 15 years or more when stored under the right conditions.
What foods pair well with Travaglini Gattinara?
This wine pairs beautifully with rich dishes such as ragu, red meats, game, and aged cheeses. It is also an excellent choice for mushroom-based dishes like risottos or pastas.
Do I need to decant Travaglini Gattinara before serving?
Yes, it is recommended to let the wine breathe for 1 to 2 hours before serving. This enhances its flavors and allows the complex aromas to fully develop.
What is the alcohol content of Travaglini Gattinara?
Travaglini Gattinara typically has an alcohol content of 13.5% or higher, depending on the vintage.
Is Travaglini Gattinara suitable for gifting?
Absolutely! With its exceptional quality and elegant presentation, Travaglini Gattinara makes a wonderful gift for wine enthusiasts and special occasions.
What sets Travaglini apart as a winery?
Travaglini is a family-owned winery with a deep commitment to the Nebbiolo grape and Piedmont tradition. They are known for their meticulous winemaking process, use of volcanic soils, and sustainable practices, all of which contribute to their world-class wines.