Proprieta Sperino Uvaggio 2019

Proprietà Sperino’s 2019 “Uvaggio” is a soulful, transportive red that brings the rugged elegance of Northern Piedmont right to your glass. While the Langhe often gets the spotlight for its powerhouse Barolos, the Alto Piemonte—and specifically the historic sands of Lessona—offers a different kind of magic. This is where Paolo De Marchi (of Isole e Olena fame) and his son Luca have spearheaded a true viticultural renaissance.

A traditional blend of 80% Nebbiolo, 15% Vespolina, and 5% Croatina, this wine is all about lift and aromatic complexity. In the glass, it shows a vibrant ruby hue with hints of violet. The nose is incredibly expressive, jumping out with notes of dried rose petals, alpine herbs, and wild strawberries, underpinned by a distinct mineral streak that speaks to the region’s ancient volcanic soils.

On the palate, it is sleek and medium-bodied, offering a crunchy red fruit profile—think sour cherries and cranberries—seasoned with savory touches of white pepper and tobacco. The tannins are fine-grained and approachable, while the bright acidity provides a refreshing, mouth-watering finish. It’s the kind of bottle that begs for a seat at the dinner table; pair it with mushroom risotto, roasted poultry, or a simple plate of tajarin with butter and sage. If you’re looking for a red that offers sophisticated structure without the heavy weight, this is a staff favorite you won’t want to miss.