The story of the “Casa del Pinot Nero” in Rocca Dei Giorgi began in 1850, when Earl Augusto Carlo Giorgi Vistarino started growing Pinot Noir. The 900-hectare property on the hills of the Oltrepò Pavese now also produces Riesling Renano, Pinot Grigio, Moscato, Croatina and Barbera.
Today this wonderful winery is run by the Contessa Ottavia Giorgi Vimercati di Vistarino.
Ottavia is member of the association Donne del Vino and her story has been included in the amazing book presented at the Vinitaly 2018, “DIWINE – Storie di donne e di terre da amare”, La Repubblica.
Ottavia invited us to visit the new cellar opened in July.
She showed the state-of-the-art machinery, a sign of her ability to manage innovation – also thanks to the European support – and presented her interesting views on company welfare to improve employee motivation.
The tasting session
Tasting her wines in this modern room surrounded by windows was an unforgettable experience.
First the Charmat Method sparkling wines – coming in new attractive bottles – then the Classic Method – aged on the lees for 42 months – and finally two specials: Tavernetto and Pernice 2013.
Today Conte Vistarino and this cellar offer the opportunity to know more about this land so suitable for Pinot Noir grapes. And Ottavia is not only a “Donna del Vino” but also a great manager who represents the Oltrepò region very well in the world.
Wine Princess suggests
Pernice, Pinot Nero 2013.
Who should drink it: Those who love PINOT NERO, the young vine plants used for the production come straight from Bourgogne! An austere yet really fine structure.
When to drink it: On the first Sunday in autumn, for lunch, paired with stuffed pasta, game recipes or mushrooms.
A wonderful opportunity: A visit to the Cantina Conte Vistarino: the new building, the Villa Fornace built in 1700 and the huge park … you’ll be lost for words!
“God save the Queen”, or rather …
God save Countess Vistarino and her ideas!