# Nina (Francesca Castaldi)

> Red, Colline Novaresi DOC Vespolina by [Francesca Castaldi](https://ilvinobello.com/wineries/francesca-castaldi.md), Alto Piemonte, Piemonte, Italy. From Il Vino Bello (https://ilvinobello.com/wines/francesca-castaldi-nina).

- **Producer:** Francesca Castaldi
- **Style:** Red
- **Denomination:** Colline Novaresi DOC Vespolina
- **Grape:** Vespolina 100%
- **Production area:** A Vespolina vineyard of about 7,000 m².
- **Soil:** Clay and silt on the surface, with sand and stones deeper down.
- **Exposure:** Good exposure, with sun and a breeze from Monte Rosa creating an ideal ripening climate.
- **Harvest:** Mid to late September.
- **Vineyard planting:** Planted in 2001, Guyot-trained.
- **Vinification:** Hand-picked in about 20 kg baskets and fully destemmed. Alcoholic fermentation is carried out by native yeasts in cement tanks for about 4 to 5 days, with two gentle pump-overs a day to keep the cap moist and aromatic. The short maceration aims to bring out the grape's typical varietal character. The wine is drawn off while the must is still fermenting, followed by winter racking to clarify it, then bottled usually in April or May of the year after harvest.
- **Last updated:** 2026-09-25



## Summary

A 100% Vespolina from a vineyard planted in 2001, briefly macerated in cement and bottled the spring after harvest.

## Tasting notes

Intense violet-tinged red, bright. Intensely vinous on the nose, with notes of red berries and white pepper spice. Dry, full-bodied and persistent on the palate, with a pleasant bitter finish that brings out the variety's fine spice.

## Food pairings

Cured meats and local cheeses.