Sottimano, Barbaresco DOCG, Curra

About Sottimano

Sottimano is a family-run winery located in the heart of Barbaresco, in the Langhe region of Piedmont, Italy. Founded in the 1970s by Rino Sottimano, the estate has grown to become one of the leading producers in the area, now managed by his son Andrea Sottimano alongside other family members. The estate covers approximately 18 hectares of vineyards, spread across some of Barbaresco’s most prestigious crus, including Cottà, Currà, Fausoni, Pajoré, and Basarin. Each of these sites boasts unique soil compositions and microclimates, allowing Sottimano to craft single-vineyard wines that express the distinct character of their origins.

The Sottimano family practices organic viticulture, avoiding the use of chemical fertilizers, herbicides, or pesticides in their vineyards. Their philosophy is rooted in respect for the land and a commitment to sustainable agriculture, believing that healthy vines produce the most expressive grapes. Yields are kept low to ensure concentration and quality, and harvests are done by hand to select only the best fruit. In the cellar, the Sottimano approach is characterized by minimal intervention. Fermentations occur with indigenous yeasts, and macerations are often extended to extract maximum complexity and structure from the Nebbiolo grape. The wines are aged in French oak barrels, with a preference for used rather than new wood to preserve the purity of the fruit and the nuances of each vineyard site.

While Barbaresco is at the core of Sottimano’s production, the estate also produces exceptional Dolcetto d’Alba, Barbera d’Alba, and Langhe Nebbiolo. These wines are crafted with the same meticulous care and attention to detail as their top Barbaresco bottlings. Sottimano’s Dolcetto and Barbera are particularly noted for their balance, freshness, and depth, offering a vibrant expression of their respective varietals. The Langhe Nebbiolo, sourced from younger vines in Barbaresco vineyards, provides an accessible yet authentic glimpse into the estate’s style and the region’s potential.

Sottimano’s Barbaresco wines are celebrated for their elegance, complexity, and age-worthiness. Each cru bottling is vinified and aged separately, allowing the individual characteristics of Cottà, Currà, Fausoni, Pajoré, and Basarin to shine. The wines typically display aromas of red fruits, floral notes, and subtle spice, with a refined tannic structure and vibrant acidity. They are known to evolve beautifully in the cellar, gaining additional layers of nuance and sophistication over time. Andrea Sottimano’s careful stewardship ensures that each vintage reflects both the unique qualities of the year and the enduring identity of the estate.

Today, Sottimano is recognized for its dedication to authenticity, terroir-driven winemaking, and a deep respect for tradition. The family’s hands-on approach, from vineyard to bottle, has earned them a loyal following among wine lovers and critics alike. Their wines are sought after for their purity, precision, and the way they capture the soul of Barbaresco. Sottimano continues to be a benchmark for quality in Piedmont, offering wines that are both a tribute to their heritage and a testament to the potential of the Langhe’s great vineyards.