This family-run estate, based in Barbaresco, produce wonderfully pure wines of drive and character. The estate is steeped in winemaking history – wine has been made there since 1894 by the initial owner, Domizio Cavazza. Nicknamed the ‘father of Barbaresco’, he was the first person to produce wine from Nebbiolo vineyards under the name Barbaresco. He planted the famous pine tree (‘pino’) at the estate when his first son was born, now a recognisable landmark in the region.
The Vaccas took over in 1912 and Cantina del Pino was born in 1997. The Ovello vineyard, which surrounds the estate, is one of the greatest cru in Barbaresco. Many of the vines are 70+ years old, and it consistently produces one of the best and age-worthy wines in the region. Albesani is located in Neive. The soil here is more clay (Ovello is sandier) with a warmer, southerly exposition, and it tends to be more approachable in its youth than Ovello. The straight Barbaresco is a blend of four vineyards, predominantly Ovello and Gallina.
Sadly, winemaker and owner Renato Vacca passed away in March 2020. He was one of the most gentle, kind and knowledgeable growers we have had the pleasure of meeting. His wines are as unassuming, ethereal and deep as he was. Today the estate is run by his wife Franca and the family.
