Tenuta Migliavacca

From the Piedmont, this producer was the first biodynamic one in the region dating back to 1964. This was way ahead of the organic movement and certainly eons before it was cool to be sustainable. But that is the way it has always been done at Migliavacca. From raising their own cattle to composting everything in sight, this self sustaining winery is the real deal. All of this hard work is overseen by the family with the Patriarch Francesco leading the way. Francesco’s no nonsense, back to basics work ethic generates wines that taste like the old world Piemonte. Classic, full-on minerality, high acidity and light finessed bodied wines with floral and barnyard aromatics give all of his bottlings unique character, grace and importance all while being very easy to drink, and every bottle is less than $20.

Starting off our trip to Piedmont the 2009 Tenuta Migliavacca Barbera del Monferrato ($14) is a delicious lighter red with abundant red fruit, beautiful tart raspberry acidity with dried leather and tobacco for a sturdy but not overpowering finish. This wine is excellent with veal.

The 2009 Monferrato Freisa from Migliavacca($15) is a fantastic surprise. The wine is slightly frizzante and has an aromatic floral nose. Although it is a lighter bodied red, there are abundant notes of dark berries with hints of bitterness that add a good balance to the finish. Try this one barely chilled with some salame and a good hard cheese.

Now for what has recently become quite popular at Panzano the 2009 Tenuta Migliavacca Grignolino del Monferrato Casalese($16). Made from the Grignolino grape this wine embodies characteristics of nebbiolo, gamay, and pinot noir. While this wine may sound complex, and maybe it is, it is very drinkable. This is an excellent value wine, with delicious aromatics, great red fruits on the palate, and a satisfying finish. A very food friendly wine with good acidity, it also is smooth and enjoyable and is a great every day wine with character. We prefer serving this vino at cellar temp(about 60 degrees) with a plate of risotto, or roasted pork.

This is the full line currently available from Migliavacca and all will be tasted this weekend. While we do have a decent supply once tasted these wines won’t last long. We look forward to seeing you at the table.

Cheers!,

Fred Mullins