MAGALON Viognier Piemonte DOC 2022 - Bag in a Box

"Magalon" Viognier Piemonte DOC 2022 / Vinchio Vaglio / Piedmont

White wine from Italy

In the charming village of Vinchio, nestled between the renowned towns of Asti and Alba in the picturesque Piemont region of northern Italy, you'll find the headquarters of the Vinchio Vaglio winemaking cooperative. For many years, the Vinchio and Vaglio Serra areas in Piemont have been recognized as ideal locations for cultivating the Barbera grape. The soils of the hills surrounding Vinchio, Vaglio, and the neighbouring villages are limestone-rich, neutral, or slightly alkaline, providing optimal conditions for growing this grape variety. These factors have led to the establishment of a hub for producing high-quality Barbera wines here. Additionally, the expertise and skill of Vinchio's cellar master’s over time have contributed to the creation of wonderful wines from other local grape varieties, many of which have gained worldwide acclaim.

The Viognier grape variety is renowned for its aromatic white wines. Originating from the Rhône region in France, it develops a unique character in Piemont, Italy. There, it is cultivated on limestone hills, where the cool climate and altitude enhance its aromas. The Viognier grape has a long history, possibly dating back to Roman times. After a period of obscurity, it has experienced a revival in recent decades. The vine features large, dark green leaves and produces small, conical clusters of medium-sized, golden-yellow berries. It buds early and thrives in warm climates. In Piemont, the unique conditions and practices of the winemakers result in a Viognier that stands out from the rest.

Magalon was a captivating figure of the past century, known as a kind of magician and in the Piedmontese dialect also a bit of an "Azzeccagarbugli," which roughly translates to someone who adeptly navigates any situation. One could also call him a cunning advocate. With his sharp mind, he always managed to solve problems in unexpected ways and relished in boasting about it, in the style of typical French "Grandezza." This character shares with the French grape variety Viognier the remarkable ability to blend well with native grape varieties, thereby achieving excellent results. Originally only moderately widespread in the French regions along the northern part of the Rhône, the Viognier vine has in recent years gained great popularity among Sicilian winemakers. And more recently, it has also been highly esteemed in the Alto Monferrato, where specific areas are considered ideal for its cultivation. As a result, the production of extremely interesting wines has begun, in which the aromatic characteristics of the vine are particularly emphasized.

The Viognier grapes for this exquisite white wine thrive on sandy soils, where they ripen under the warm sun, unlocking their delicate aromas. By mid-September, when the grapes have reached their full splendour, the harvest begins. Preferably initiated in the early morning to preserve the grapes' freshness, ensuring they arrive at the winery on the same day. Upon arrival, the grapes are gently pressed, and the clear juice is carefully separated from the cloudy residue. The alcoholic fermentation, a crucial step in the creation of this wine, proceeds slowly and deliberately. In specialized stainless-steel tanks, under tightly controlled conditions of 16 degrees Celsius, the wine's aromas and structure develop over a period of about 20 days. Once fermentation is complete, a gentle transfer into additional stainless-steel tanks takes place, where the wine remains for three months at a controlled temperature of approximately 6 degrees Celsius. During this resting period, the wine unfolds its full potential. Through regular stirring of the fine lees, known as batonnage in oenological circles, the wine gains complexity and richness. Finally, after three months of maturation and refinement, the wine is ready to captivate the world. Its aromatic finesse and balanced structure make it a true delight for discerning palates.

This delightful Viognier from the picturesque Piemont region reveals itself in a captivating straw-yellow hue, interlaced with subtle green undertones. From the first whiff, it unfolds an enticing complexity: aromas of sun-ripened citrus fruits such as juicy grapefruit, zesty lemon, and refreshing lime combine with the charming scent of flint, along with a variety of floral and herbal notes. Once on the palate, this exceptional white wine proves to be a true masterpiece of the senses. Its richness and diversity of aromas leave a lasting impression: full-bodied and lavish, yet simultaneously well-balanced and structured. Its finish boasts remarkable length and enduring presence, a genuine moment of indulgence that enchants the senses and delights the palate.

Enjoy the "Magalon" Viognier Piemonte DOC from Vinchio Vaglio at its best when served at a temperature of 8 to 10 degrees Celsius. This exquisite drop is the perfect accompaniment to a variety of culinary delights: from creamy risotto to tender white meats, and from enticing seafood dishes to delicious fish risotto. Even a dish like rabbit with olives is wonderfully complemented by the harmonious blend of freshness and flavour diversity in this wine.

General properties

• Vintage: 2022
• Ageing: Dry
• Country: Italy
• Region: Piedmont
• Volume: 3.00 litres

Detailed properties

• Producer and bottler: Vinchio Vaglio - Regione San Pancrazio 1 - 14040 Vinchio (AT) - Italia - +39 0141 950903
• Quality Designation: Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC)
• Grape variety: 100% Viognier.
  
• Soil: Sandy soils.
• Average cultivation height: 250 m above sea level.
• Orientation: East West.
  
• Vine training system and plant density: Guyot. 4500 vines per hectare.
• Harvest: Manual harvest in mid-September and initiation of the vinification process as quickly as possible.
  
• Winemaking: The grapes are gently pressed and the clear must is separated from the cloudy must. The alcoholic fermentation takes place very slowly and takes place under reduction in stainless steel tanks at a controlled 16 °C. This process takes about 20 days.
  
• Aging: Once the alcoholic fermentation is complete, the wine is transferred to stainless steel tanks at a controlled 6°C and left on the fine lees for three months with a series of batonnage operations. Finally, the wine rests for around three months before being released.
  
• Sensory characteristics: The nose is complex, aromatic and fruity with hints of citrus (grapefruit, lemon, lime) as well as flint, floral and herbal aromas. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, aromatic, structured, long-lasting and sustainable.
  
• Colour: Straw yellow with greenish reflections.
  
• Alcohol content: 13.5 % Vol.
• How to serve: Very good with risotto, white meats, fish dishes, fish risotto and rabbit with olives.
  
• Recommended serving temperature: Between 8 and 10°C.
• Allergens: Contains sulfites.
• Scope of supply: 1 Bag in a Box Wine 3.00 litres.

Grape variety

VIOGNIER

The Viognier grape variety has gained worldwide renowned for its fragrant and intensely aromatic white wines. Originating from southern France, specifically the Rhône region, it is cherished for its characteristic flavours of peach, apricot, jasmine, and other floral notes. However, when cultivated in the Piedmont region of northwestern Italy, its character is significantly influenced by the terroir and climate there. In Piedmont, Viognier vines are primarily grown on the limestone hills of the Langhe area, where the cool climate and elevation help preserve acidity and intensify aromas. Cool nights maintain the freshness of fruit aromas, while warm days bring forth the typical Viognier characteristics. The history of the Viognier grape possibly dates back to Roman times, although clear evidence of its exact origin or original name is lacking. During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, the Viognier vine enjoyed a certain reputation in the Rhône Valley and was used to produce aromatic white wines. However, in the 19th century, it nearly fell into obscurity due to the phylloxera epidemic and other challenges that devastated many vineyards in Europe. In recent decades, Viognier has experienced a remarkable revival, particularly in the 1980s and beyond, when it was rediscovered and gained international acclaim. The large, round or slightly oval leaves of the Viognier plant have a dark green colour and are lightly lobed with three to five lobes. The grapes are typically small and conical in shape, growing in loose, often pyramidal clusters. The medium-sized berries have a golden-yellow to amber-coloured skin. Viognier vines bud early and are therefore susceptible to late frosts. Flowering occurs relatively early in spring, and the vines require a long growing season to fully ripen. They prefer warm to hot climates to fully develop their flavours. Due to the diverse natural conditions and winemaking practices of Piedmont winemakers, a Viognier wine is produced that distinctly differs from those of other regions around the world.

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