Cascina Ca'Rossa Funsu Langhe Nebbiolo 2022

Unlike the prestigious Barolo and Barbaresco wines that require years of ageing in oak, this Funsu is crafted without any oak influence and designed for immediate enjoyment. While traditional Piemonte nebbiolos are built for decades of cellaring, this wine prioritises approachable fruit flavours and softer tannins by blending grapes from two complementary vineyards - one providing elegance, the other structure.

Funsu was the affectionate nickname of Grandfather Alfonso from the Ferrio family, and this wine serves as a tribute to his legacy. This personal touch reflects the intimate, family-driven winemaking philosophy of Cascina Ca'Rossa, where each bottle carries forward generational traditions while embracing modern, accessible winemaking techniques that honour the past without being bound by it.

The wine's rose, violet and sour cherry notes, combined with subtle earthiness and tea-like tannins, make it exceptional with umami-rich dishes. Think truffle pasta, wild mushroom risotto, aged hard cheeses, or even rabbit ragù - the wine's textured, savoury character enhances these complex flavours. The lack of oak allows the nebbiolo's natural acidity to cut through rich, creamy sauces while complementing earthy ingredients.

The 2022 vintage earned a 'Killer Vintage' rating of 90 points, indicating exceptional growing conditions in Piemonte that year. This translates to more concentrated fruit flavours and better balance between the wine's elegant and structured elements. Great vintages in nebbiolo typically mean the grapes achieved optimal ripeness while retaining the variety's signature acidity and aromatic complexity.

This wine is intentionally crafted for immediate pleasure rather than long-term cellaring - it's designed to deliver 'pleasure you want this weekend, not in the next century.' The absence of oak and the winemaker's blending approach prioritise approachable tannins and vibrant fruit expression. While it could develop for 3-5 years, you'll miss the intended youthful charm and fresh floral aromatics that make this nebbiolo special.