Founded in 1906, Nervi is the oldest winery in Gattinara and one of Alto Piemonte’s most historic estates, with vineyard roots reaching back to the 1600s. The estate holds prized parcels in the region’s top crus, including Molsino and Valferana, where steep slopes and volcanic soils yield nebbiolo of remarkable structure, minerality, and finesse. These are not the junior cousins to Barolo. They are peers, shaped by altitude, volcanic soil, and time.
In 2018, Roberto Conterno of Giacomo Conterno acquired Nervi, bringing with him the same rigorous philosophy and precision that defines his work in Barolo. With his son Gabriele, Roberto has invested in a state-of-the-art cantina and continues to refine both vineyard and cellar practices. The wines remain classically made, with long macerations and aging in large botti, and include a classico Gattinara as well as single-cru bottlings from Molsino and Valferana. Under Conterno’s care, Nervi has become a new benchmark for the region and a powerful case for the greatness of Gattinara.
Valferana is among Gattinara’s most historic sites, first documented in the 13th century. At 320 meters of elevation, its cooler, west-facing slopes and mineral-rich volcanic soils produce a style of nebbiolo that is elegant, precise, and firmly rooted in place. Only the best fruit from the cru is selected for this bottling, which is made only in the best vintages.
The 2021 is a poised and finely cut expression, with aromas of wild cherry, rosehip, iron, and alpine herbs. Fermented in conical oak vats and aged for four years in large cask, it carries structure without heaviness and acidity that gives it lift and longevity. The tannins are firm and refined, and the finish lingers with stony detail and clarity. This is a wine of restraint and definition, built to age with confidence.
“The 2021 Gattinara Vigna Valferana is absolutely gorgeous. A wine of energy, tension and cut, the 2021 is immediately captivating. Crushed rocks, iron, slate, white pepper and mint all race across the palate. The persistent, intensely saline finish is a thing of beauty. The Valferana is a Gattinara for readers who enjoy reds built on energy and tension. This is so expressive, even in the early going.” – 95 pts, Antonio Galloni, Vinous
...
These wines are pre-arrival with an estimated arrival date of late summer. During warmer months orders are placed on hold, your wines will ship as weather permits and the daily range is consistently between 45 and 74 degrees. Please note pre-arrival sales are non-refundable as suppliers require us to make binding commitments and deposits to secure the wine.
