Sizzano Giuseppe Bianchi 1976
The 1976 Sizzano from Giuseppe Bianchi is a classic red wine originating from the northwestern corner of Italy. Produced and bottled by Giuseppe Bianchi, this wine holds a Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) classification, representing one of Piedmont's smallest appellations. Located in Alto Piemonte within the province of Novara, the Sizzano DOC is situated along the Sesia river. The appellation, which gained its official status in 1969, is strictly limited to the small municipality of Sizzano and is known for its highly restricted production of less than 1,000 cases per year.
Piedmont, literally translating to "at the foot of the mountain," is bordered by the Alps and stands as one of the world's most prestigious wine regions. The area is celebrated for its small, passionate, family-run wineries and a profound dedication to terroir. The landscape is defined by dramatic, steep hills that are frequently enveloped in thick autumn fog, a natural phenomenon that protects the vineyards and ensures a long, steady ripening period for the grapes. In Sizzano, the cool alpine climate interacts with fluvio-glacial soils composed of sand, clay, and moraine stones.
This wine is crafted from a traditional regional blend led by Nebbiolo, which is locally referred to as Spanna. In accordance with the appellation's standards, Nebbiolo constitutes between 50 and 70 percent of the composition. It is carefully supplemented by Vespolina, making up 15 to 40 percent, and Uva Rara, which can account for up to 25 percent of the blend. The production method strictly follows local regulations, requiring the wine to undergo a minimum of 24 months of aging before release, with at least 18 of those months spent resting in barrels. This 1976 vintage was bottled at 12.2% alcohol by volume in a traditional 720ml format.
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 as 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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