La Spinetta, Barolo DOCG, Campe

About La Spinetta

La Spinetta stands as one of Italy’s most dynamic and influential wine producers, with roots tracing back to 1977 in Castagnole delle Lanze, Piedmont. Founded by Giuseppe “Pin” Rivetti and his wife Lidia, the estate began with a focus on Moscato d’Asti, but their ambition quickly propelled them into the realm of serious red wines. Today, La Spinetta is managed by the Rivetti siblings—Giorgio, Enrico, and Bruno—who have expanded the estate’s reach and reputation both in Piedmont and Tuscany.

The Rivetti family’s philosophy emphasizes respect for tradition while embracing innovation. In the vineyards, they practice sustainable agriculture, avoiding chemical fertilizers and herbicides, and encouraging biodiversity. Their holdings include some of Piedmont’s most prestigious sites, such as the Barbaresco crus Gallina, Starderi, and Valeirano, as well as Barolo Campe. Each vineyard is meticulously cared for, with low yields and careful selection of grapes to ensure quality from the outset.

La Spinetta’s approach in the cellar is marked by a balance of modern techniques and classic sensibilities. They were among the early adopters of French oak barriques in Piedmont, which helped to bring out the purity and intensity of Nebbiolo while maintaining varietal character. Fermentation is carried out with indigenous yeasts, and intervention is kept to a minimum to allow the terroir to express itself. Their Barbaresco and Barolo wines are celebrated for their depth, elegance, and age-worthiness, often marked by a signature note of ripe fruit, floral aromatics, and refined tannins.

Beyond Nebbiolo, La Spinetta produces a diverse range of wines, including Barbera d’Asti, Langhe Nebbiolo, and their original Moscato d’Asti, which remains a benchmark for the style. In 2001, the Rivetti family expanded into Tuscany, acquiring the Casanova estate in the hills of Terricciola. Here, they produce Sangiovese-based wines such as Il Nero di Casanova and Sezzana, as well as a Super Tuscan blend, Il Colorino di Casanova. These Tuscan wines reflect the same commitment to site expression and quality as their Piedmontese counterparts.

A distinctive feature of La Spinetta’s wines is their labels, which often feature engravings by the German artist Albrecht Dürer, such as the iconic rhinoceros on their Barbaresco bottlings. This artistic touch reflects the family’s passion for art and symbolizes the strength and individuality of their wines.

La Spinetta’s dedication extends beyond wine production to hospitality and education. The estate welcomes visitors for tastings and tours, offering insights into their philosophy and winemaking process. Their commitment to excellence has garnered international acclaim, with consistently high ratings from critics and a loyal global following.

Today, La Spinetta represents a blend of heritage, innovation, and artistry, producing wines that capture the essence of their origins. Whether from the rolling hills of Piedmont or the sun-drenched slopes of Tuscany, each bottle is a testament to the Rivetti family’s vision and unwavering pursuit of quality.