Sizzano Riserva Dessilani Luigi & Figlio 1988
The 1988 Sizzano Riserva is a red wine produced by Dessilani Luigi & Figlio. It originates from the Sizzano Denominazione di Origine Controllata, which holds the distinction of being one of the smallest DOC appellations in the Piedmont region of northwestern Italy. Located in Alto Piemonte within the province of Novara, the vineyards are situated along the Sesia river. The Sizzano DOC, established in 1969, is strictly limited to its namesake municipality and is known for an extremely limited production of fewer than 1,000 cases annually.
Piedmont, literally translating to "at the foot of the mountain," is bordered by the Alps and is globally recognized as a highly prestigious wine region. The area is characterized by steep hills often enveloped in thick autumn fog, which protects the vines and facilitates a long, perfect ripening period. In Sizzano, the cool alpine climate is combined with fluvio-glacial soils composed of sand, clay, and moraine stones. This specific terroir is highly valued by the small, passionate, family-run wineries that define the region's focus on how microclimates and soil composition shape the final product.
Following the strict regulations of the appellation, this wine is crafted primarily from Nebbiolo, which is known locally as Spanna and makes up 50 to 70 percent of the blend. It is complemented by 15 to 40 percent Vespolina and up to 25 percent Uva Rara. The production methods for the area require a minimum of 24 months of aging, with at least 18 months spent in wooden barrels. Bottled at 12 percent alcohol by volume, this 1988 Riserva represents a classic example of the traditional winemaking practices from this historic part of Alto Piemonte.
The history of the wine
Below, you can delve into the history of this wine — its producer, grape, area, and region.
Piedmont
Piedmont (which literally means "at the foot of the mountain") is located in northwestern Italy, surrounded by the Alps. It is considered one of the world's absolute most prestigious wine regions. The area is known for small, passionate, family-run wineries and a huge focus on terroir (how the soil and microclimate affect the wine).
Classic characteristics of Piedmont:
The royal wines: This is where the world-famous, complex and expensive red wines Barolo and Barbaresco come from (both made from 100% Nebbiolo).
Everyday heroes: In addition to Nebbiolo, the region is famous for the grapes Barbera (juicy, acidic and incredibly popular) and Dolcetto (dark, soft and fruity).
The white and sweet: Piedmont also makes the crisp white wine Gavi and the famous, lightly sparkling dessert bubbles Moscato d'Asti.
The landscape: Dramatic, steep hills – especially in the Langhe sub-area. The hills are often shrouded in thick morning mist in autumn, which protects the grapes and allows for a long, perfect ripening.
Gastronomy: An absolute mecca for food lovers. The area is world famous for the exclusive white truffles from Alba, hazelnuts and rich, simmered dishes that scream with a glass of local red wine.
When this wine was made, the world looked very different. Here are some of the stories that unfolded while this bottle quietly aged in its cellar.
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How it handles
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Storage
Store the bottle horizontally at 12–14°C and avoid direct sunlight, vibrations, and temperature fluctuations.
Opening
Allow the bottle to stand upright for 24–48 hours before opening to allow sediment to settle. Use a professional corkscrew and open carefully.
Enjoyment
Serve at 17–18°C and be patient – there is a great difference in how and how quickly wines open up when they are aerated.
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