2021 Cantina Produttori di Carema, Carema Classico

Carema, a tiny appellation at the foothills of the Alps just before you arrive in the Valle d’Aosta, offers a compelling and distinct perspective on the extraordinary Nebbiolo grape. This is a dramatic landscape where the grape shines with an alpine clarity. While Barolo and Barbaresco showcase Nebbiolo's power and density with great fanfare and worldwide acclaim, Carema offers elegance, perfume, and refined structure in relative obscurity – outside of Michelin-starred wine lists and plugged-in enthusiasts, most have never heard of Carema. We’ve championed this tiny appellation for the past 10 years, and it’s terrific to see it evolve and thrive as new growers emerge and put the region on the map. Don't let their elegant, higher-toned nature fool you; these wines are built for the long haul. Their subtle tannic structure and alpine acidity enable them to age and improve gracefully in the cellar. This profound quality emerges from a minuscule appellation, where only about 15 producers farm 25 hectares. Critically, these sensational, age-worthy Nebbiolo wines remain incredibly accessible. Founded in 1960, the Cooperative is a historical pillar of the appellation, currently uniting over 100 members who collectively farm the majority of Carema's total vineyard area. The Cantina's dedication has preserved the traditional viticulture of the challenging terraces. Their classic Carema DOC is an impeccably made expression of Alpine Nebbiolo, offering immense purity, finesse, and structure at an exceptional price point. It’s capable of ageing for decades to come.