2024 Rivetti, G. (La Spinetta) - Colli Tortonesi DOC Timorasso Derthona (750ml)

Piedmont’s great white grape, from one of its most celebrated producers. Timorasso is native to the Colli Tortonesi in Piedmont’s southeast corner, and after nearly vanishing it’s become one of Italy’s most exciting whites, often compared to dry Riesling for its structure, minerality and ability to age. “Derthona” is the ancient Roman name for Tortona, the town at the heart of the zone. Giorgio Rivetti of La Spinetta, the family behind some of Piedmont’s most acclaimed Barbaresco, sources this from organically farmed, roughly 25-year-old vines on marly, calcareous clay.

Fermented with native yeasts in stainless steel and rested on its lees for several months, the 2024 is layered and elegant, with orange peel, orange blossom, lemon confit and white flowers, a touch of almond, and the hint of petrol Timorasso is famous for. Sharp and silky on a medium-bodied palate, with a saline, precise, cleansing finish. Delicious now, with more to come. Pair with vitello tonnato, risotto, grilled fish or aged cheeses.