Ah, La Spinetta! Just the mention of its name evokes a story of exceptional winemaking, just a grape's throw away from Angelo Gaja in the Tre Biccheri awards (Italy's most important wine guide).La Spinetta is one of Italy’s most renowned wineries, with a legacy rooted in the heart of the Langhe region in Piedmont, Italy. The winery was founded in 1977 by Giuseppe (Giorgio) Rivetti, a passionate winemaker with a clear vision: to produce wines that could showcase the true potential of Piedmont’s terroir. La Spinetta owns 165 hectares of land spanning the regions of Piedmont and Tuscany, carefully selected over time rather than inherited through generations of winemaking. The vineyards are thoughtfully positioned with south, south-east, or south-west exposures, and the vines are mature, ranging from 35 to 65 years old. While their winemaking techniques are modern, their vineyard practices are deeply traditional—emphasizing year-round care, low yields, and the exclusion of chemical fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides. The name "La Spinetta" means “top of the hill,” referencing the site of their first cellar in Castagnole delle Lanze in Piedmont. The winery’s motto is "Making wine with passion," a reflection of their unwavering commitment to quality.La Spinetta's flagship Barbaresco wines, adorned with the iconic rhinoceros label, have become synonymous with excellence in the world of fine wine. These wines, crafted by Giorgio Rivetti, have earned a prestigious reputation that positions them as true ambassadors of Langhe wines on the global stage. As noted by Gambero Rosso, La Spinetta’s wines with the rhinoceros label are present in some of the most exclusive dining establishments around the world, a testament to their unparalleled reputation and the artistry behind each bottle.
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Wine Advocate