Spanna can be used to identify Nebbiolo only when you grow it in Alto Piemonte: a grape, a  wine and its region combined in one name. Spanna truly tastes like the terroir it comes from.  

A typical Vallana Spanna is very floral on the nose (rose, violets), has aromas of red fruits  (cranberry, redcurrant, cherry), notes of black pepper and liquorice, followed by smoke and charred wood. After a few years (8-10) the wine develops aromas of forest floor, leather and tobacco.  

Alto Piemonte is in the top North West corner of Italy, 100km north of Barolo, heading towards the border with Switzerland. This region is a lesser known haven for Italy’s classic Nebbiolo grape. The vineyards are generally at an altitude ranging from 300 to 450m above sea level. The region benefits from a cool, broad range of diurnal temperatures. This climate combined with the distinctively acidic soils in the area, combine to give the wines higher acidity, minerality and their great capacity for ageing. Vallana’s own vineyard holdings are in Boca and Gattinara, which they have always traditionally combined with working contractually with many small producers in the region. They work around 10 ha in total.

The fifth and current generation at Antonio Vallana e Figlio is represented by Marina and Francis Fogarty, sister and brother, who have fully taken charge of the winemaking and running of the family estate over the last 10 years. They are keen to retain the traditions of the region whilst also combining modernity and progress into their wine making.

Appearance: an inviting ruby-red colour with a slight garnet edge

Nose: The nose is expressive, offering aromas of red cherries, raspberries, and hints of dried herbs. Layers of floral notes, such as violets, intertwine with subtle earthy undertones and a touch of spice, showcasing complexity.

Palate: On the palate, expect a medium-bodied wine with bright red fruit flavours. Ripe cherries and cranberries dominate, accompanied by delicate floral nuances and hints of dried herbs. There's a refined herbal and earthy quality that adds depth, while the tannins are well-structured, providing a balanced framework.

Finish: The finish is persistent and evolving, leaving impressions of red fruit, subtle spice, and a touch of minerality.