Wine Stories Roger Sesto

Timorasso, gem of the Tortona area

Timorasso, gem of the Tortona area

When talking about the Colli Tortonesi (Alessandria), we have to mention Timorasso. And together with this native white grape from Piedmont, we have to consult Walter Massa, a true champion of this magnificent cultivar. “I believed, like I still believe today, in the immensity of Barbera, but I was in too much of a hurry to reach my goals, to give a meaning to my project. Barbera continues to be on my mind and in my heart, but the gamble with Timorasso has gone well, and the whole of the Tortona area and a multitude of critics and wine lovers have drawn great benefits.”

Long-lived whites are the future of this area

But why this variety in particular? “I believed in it by testing it seriously, after studying the history of Tortona winemaking. The production of the white wine, Torbolino, has been very important here since phylloxera was defeated. Back in the fourth century the historian and agronomist Pier de Crescenzi wrote, “The jewel of Tortona agriculture are the white wines, they have a splendid future.” And the first stage can be said to have hit the target when the Timorasso grapes for making Derthona fetch the same prices as Nebbiolo for making Barolo, for all the producers in the area.”

 

Walter Massa

 

Timorasso is a difficult variety to tame

We come to the distinctive feature of this grape: “It is a demanding grape, very promising, produces the right amount, but must be carefully looked after in spring; afterwards, it is unlikely to betray you. Interacting with the terroir of Derthona, thanks to its exposure, with brief pre-fermentation maceration and waiting a year in the cellar and at least 4 in the bottle, Derthona Timorasso is a great wine for ageing.”

See also ...

WOW! 2022, the triumph of the south
Events
WOW! 2022, the triumph of the south

We can now present the winners of WOW! Read more

Alto Adige meets Alsace at the home of Gewürztraminer
Wine Stories
Alto Adige meets Alsace at the home of Gewürztraminer

Gewürztraminer in Alto Adige and Alsace: a focus on the differences in terroir, Read more

Goodbye Giorgio Grai
Wine Stories
Goodbye Giorgio Grai

The legendary winemaking consultant and producer Giorgio Gra Read more