2017 La Source - Cornalin - Valle d’Aosta - 6 Bottiglie (0,75 L)

Cornalin is a red wine from the Aosta Valley that cannot be ignored: the team at La Source has taken it upon themselves to safeguard and protect a nearly extinct grape variety, and this wine demonstrates that true tradition is what we build with hard work today. Heritage and memory are therefore the key ingredients of an artisanal wine that still has a lot to say. La Source is a project shared by several farmers in the Aosta Valley, who have combined their knowledge and skills to run a 6.5-hectare winery with respect for the land and a desire to pass it on to future generations. At the head of the community is Stefano Celi and his long family tradition of viticulture. We are in Saint-Pierre, a small town just outside Aosta. Here, the Cornalin grapes grow at over 600 meters above sea level, in morainic soil, rich in rocky fragments and sand. The exposure is atypical and 100% functional. The grapes are planted on an east-west facing slope, allowing the vines to enjoy sunlight throughout the day. The Cornalin grapes are harvested and transported to the cellar, where they undergo destemming and gentle pressing. Fermentation occurs spontaneously at a controlled temperature between 26° and 28° in stainless steel vats. It ages in stainless steel for at least 6 months before being bottled and aged for approximately another 6 months. Cornalin by La Source presents a rather intense ruby ​​red color. The nose is complex and herbaceous, with fruity notes of berries and orange, with subtle hints of black pepper. On the palate, it is full-bodied, with a delicate acidity and well-balanced tannins. We pair Cornalin by La Source with white meat dishes, such as chicken roulades with mashed potatoes, or with pork. It also goes well with roast veal and Valdostana risotto.