Grignolino "Ottavio" Vino Rosso, Tavijn - 2024

Cascina 'Tavijn's 'Ottavio'—a lithe natural Grignolino—is a fitting introduction to this small, family-run estate, which draws from indigenous Piemontese varietals on wild, steep soils in the Asti hills. Winegrower Nadia Verruà has an experimental tack that has inspired a new generation of young producers in the region, producing ready-to-drink natural wines in stark contrast to the staid styles the area is typically known for. Utilizing a short press followed by extensive cold maceration, 'Ottavio' is high-acid, grippy and dusky pink, with a bacterial funk upon opening that gives way to tart red fruit, black pepper and spruce tips. Though this looks like a rosé, it should definitely be treated as a light red! Lovely as an aperitivo with salumi and cheese, with a slight chill and some time to breathe.