Forteto della Luja Mon Ross Barbera d'Asti 2023

Forteto della Luja is a historic winery in Piedmont, Italy, specifically in the Loazzolo area, part of the Asti province. The estate has been in the same family for generations and is well known for its dedication to biodiversity, sustainability, and producing high-quality organic wines.

The winery's vineyards, strategically positioned on steep, sun-kissed hillsides, are the region's unique microclimate that significantly enhances the quality of the wines. This area is especially well-Loazzolo's production of Moscato, which thrives in Loazzolo's rich soils and favorable climatic conditions. TItaly'ste is particularly famous for its Loazzolo DOC, Italy's smallest DOC appellation, and produces the Forteto della Luja Loazzolo Vendemmia Tardiva, a rare sweet wine made from late-harvested Moscato grapes that are dried to concentrate their flavors.

Fortetod'Asti Luja is also noted for its production of Barbera d'Asti, notably the Mon Ross cuvée, which is celebrated for its vibrant fruit flavors and balanced acidity. The estate is committed to organic farming and protecting the surrounding natural environment, with part of the property designated as a WWF Natural Oasis. The winery is a member of the VIVA Sustainable Wine program, which focuses on reducing the environmental impact of wine production, emphasizing biodiversity, soil health, and sustainable agriculture.

Piedmont, or Piemonte as it's known in Italian, is often hailed as the "Burgundy of Italy" by wine enthusiasts. This esteemed wine-producing region sits in Italy's northwestern corner, nestled at the base of the mountains. Surrounded by France to the west, Valle d'Aosta northwest, Lombardy east, and Liguria south, Piedmont is also home to Turin, its capital and largest city.

A standout feature of Piedmont, much like Veneto, is its rich tapestry of indigenous grape varieties. These varietals create a diverse range of unique and exceptional wines. A key aspect of Piedmont's traditional winemaking is the practice of using single grape varieties, and avoiding blends, which highlights the region's dedication to showcasing individual grape characteristics.

Piedmont's comparison to Burgundy stems from several crucial factors. Firstly, there's a strong emphasis on quality over quantity, with many wineries being small, family-owned, and harmoniously integrated with their natural surroundings. This focus aligns perfectly with the principles of natural wine production.

Secondly, the region adopts a terroir-driven approach to viticulture and winemaking. Vineyards are meticulously divided into cru (or zonazione in Italian), each producing wines with distinct and specific characteristics.

Lastly, the renowned Nebbiolo grape, a staple of Piedmont and globally celebrated, is treated similarly to Burgundy's Pinot Noir. Notably, Nebbiolo wines are never blended.