Terroir
The 2022 Grignolino d’Asti from Marchesi Incisa della Rocchetta originates in the rolling hills of Asti, within the broader region of Piedmont. This historic zone, part of the Monferrato area, is particularly well-suited to native varieties, with Grignolino being one of its most traditional and distinctive grapes.

The vineyards are planted on gently sloping hills composed of calcareous clay, sand, and marl, soils that offer excellent drainage while retaining enough moisture to sustain vines through the warm growing season. These soil types contribute to the wine’s delicate color, lifted aromatics, and subtle mineral undertones.

The climate is continental with Mediterranean influence—warm summers encourage full ripening, while cool nights preserve acidity and aromatic freshness. This diurnal variation is essential for Grignolino, a grape known for its ability to combine lightness with structure. The 2022 vintage reflects a balanced growing season, yielding fruit with clarity, brightness, and refined phenolic ripeness.

Winemaking & Technical Notes
At Marchesi Incisa della Rocchetta, Grignolino is handled with a light touch to preserve its naturally delicate color and aromatic finesse while still capturing its characteristic tannic structure.

The wine is produced from 100% Grignolino, a grape notable for its unusually high seed count, which contributes to its distinctive tannic profile despite its pale hue. After harvest, the grapes are gently destemmed and fermented in stainless steel at controlled temperatures to retain freshness and aromatic purity.

Extraction is carefully managed to avoid excessive bitterness while still drawing out the grape’s fine tannins and subtle complexity. The wine is aged exclusively in stainless steel, avoiding oak influence and allowing the varietal character to remain transparent and precise.

Alcohol levels are 14%, supported by bright acidity and a lightly structured frame. The resulting style emphasizes freshness, drinkability, and a clear expression of both grape and place.

Tasting Notes
The 2022 Grignolino d’Asti shows a pale, transparent ruby color that hints at its lighter-bodied style. The nose is lifted and aromatic, opening with notes of cranberry, wild strawberry, and pomegranate, alongside delicate floral tones of rose and dried petals.

With time in the glass, subtle layers of white pepper, dried herbs, and a faint earthy nuance emerge, adding complexity without weight. The aromatic profile remains fresh and precise, emphasizing red fruit and floral elegance.

On the palate, the wine is light to medium-bodied, with bright acidity and a surprising tannic grip given its delicate appearance. Flavors of tart red berries—cranberry, strawberry, and red currant—are supported by subtle spice and a savory undertone.

The texture is crisp and lively, with fine, slightly grippy tannins that provide structure and food-friendly balance. The finish is clean and refreshing, with lingering notes of red fruit, spice, and a faint mineral edge.

Food Pairing & Service
Serve slightly chilled, around 55–60°F (13–16°C), in a standard red wine glass. A brief chill enhances the wine’s freshness and highlights its vibrant aromatics.

This Grignolino is exceptionally versatile at the table due to its combination of acidity, light body, and subtle tannin. It pairs well with lighter meat dishes such as roasted chicken, turkey, or pork, as well as charcuterie and cured meats.

It also complements vegetable-driven cuisine, including mushroom dishes, roasted root vegetables, and herb-forward preparations. Its bright acidity makes it an excellent match for tomato-based dishes such as pasta with light sauces or rustic Italian fare.

For more unexpected pairings, it works beautifully with sushi, grilled fish, or lightly spiced Asian dishes, where its freshness and gentle tannins provide contrast without overwhelming the food.

Cellaring Potential
The 2022 Grignolino d’Asti is best enjoyed in its youth, within 3–5 years of the vintage, when its bright fruit and floral aromatics are most expressive.

While the grape’s tannic structure can support moderate aging, extended cellaring is not typically the goal for this style. With time, the wine may develop more savory and earthy characteristics, but its primary appeal lies in its freshness, vibrancy, and light, food-friendly profile.

For optimal enjoyment, this wine is best consumed while its lively acidity, delicate fruit, and subtle complexity are at their peak.