2023 Ottin - Pinot Nero Valle d'Aosta (750ml)

The Ottin family has grown grapes in the Aosta Valley for generations, high in the Italian Alps near the French and Swiss borders. Elio Ottin trained at the regional agricultural institute and began farming in 1989, raising cattle, apples, and grapes. For years the family sold its fruit to the local cooperative, until Elio launched the Ottin label in 2007. His son Nicolas joined him in 2013. Today they farm about 10 hectares organically above the city of Aosta and are among the region’s most respected producers.

This Pinot Noir comes from vineyards around Porossan, on the slopes north of Aosta, about 600 meters above sea level. The vines grow on loose, silty-sandy soils full of stone and are trained in the Guyot style. At this altitude, long sunny days and cold alpine nights slow ripening, so the grapes keep their aromatic clarity and fresh acidity. The 2023 vintage gave healthy fruit with moderate alcohol and lively acidity.

The wine is garnet red, with aromas of wild strawberry, red cherry, and ripe red berries, plus hints of leather, light spice, and alpine herbs. The palate is round and velvety, with good structure and a fine, gently bitter tannin typical of mountain Pinot Noir. The finish is lifted and mineral. It goes well with roast meats, game, mushroom risotto, or aged alpine cheese such as Fontina.