Il Cascinone was acquired by leading Piemonte producer Araldica in 1999 – an exceptional estate in the Monferrato hills which has undergone extensive restoration and replanting. Now around 70ha of the total 102ha are in full production, with the warmer, southwest-facing slopes used to grow Barbera, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon – whilst the northeast slopes are ideal for more aromatic varieties Brachetto and Moscato, along with Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.

The ‘Il Cascinone’ range (and part of the Alasia range) is produced with grapes sourced from Araldica’s most prized vineyards, both on the estate itself and from other selected sites. This includes the further d’Annona vineyard in the village of Fontanile – purchased by Claudio Manera in 1998. This south-west facing vineyard is a source of premium quality Barbera, from vines over 60 years old. Grapes from d’Annona are brought to Il Cascinone for vinification.

All harvesting at Il Cascinone and d’Annona is by hand. The Araldica winemaking team of Claudio Manera, Lella Burdese and Carlo Manera oversee all production.

Production at Il Cascinone has obtained the SQNPI trademark – Sistema di Qualit Nazionale di Produzione Integrata (National Quality System of Integrated Crop Management). Wines and vintages that are now fully compatible with this system have a bee symbol on the label, which guarantees that each phase of production has complied with the strict parameters of integrated crop management. In other words, it is sustainable and eco-compatible, certified by an independent third party.

Vineyards

Palazzina vineyard is on the Il Cascinone estate. Vine yield is 3000 litres per hectare. The fruit is hand harvested in the second half of October (about one month later than the usual Moscato harvest).

Vinification

The grapes are dried on ‘graticci’ – a traditional Italian rush mat. During this time 40% of the fruit’s weight is lost by water evaporation. In mid-December the whole bunches are pressed and then a slow fermentation is undertaken in oak barrels for 2 months followed by 12 months ageing prior to bottling.

Tasting Notes

We can’t recommend this enough. A beautifully balanced dessert wine, lovingly crafted, and an absolute steal!

A nose of intense lemon curd, marmalade, and orange peel with fragrant honeysuckle notes. The palate has lots of ripe apricot and acacia honey characters with honeyed sweetness, well-balanced by a fresh citrus zest bite on the lingering finish.

Delicious with mature cheese or desserts.