Walter Massa, Derthona Timorasso, Piedmont 2022

Walter Massa revived the nearly forgotten Timorasso grape in the Colli Tortonesi region, crafting powerful, mineral-driven white wines that have captivated even the most discerning palates. His 2006 Derthona impressed wine critic Jancis Robinson with its complexity, elegance, and evolving flavors over several days. Massa’s passion breathes life into the quiet village of Monleale Alto, where visitors experience not just wine but a vibrant connection to land and community. Beyond Timorasso, he also produces age-worthy reds like Barbera Monleale, showcasing his deep commitment to local varieties and sustainable viticulture.

• Grape Variety: 100% Timorasso, a native white grape known for its aging potential and mineral complexity.

• Region: Colli Tortonesi, Eastern Piedmont, Italy.

• Winemaking & Aging: Fermented with indigenous yeasts and macerated on skins for 40–45 hours (simply for enhanced texture - this is not an orange wine). The wine is aged for approximately 12 months in stainless steel and concrete vats, with periodic lees stirring (batonnage). It is bottled after about 14 months from harvest. 

• Farming Practices: Practicing organic viticulture, focusing on sustainable and traditional methods.

• Food Pairings: Ideal with seafood dishes like carpaccio and tartare, white fish pasta, grilled fish, charcuterie, and cheese boards.