The wines of Stella were a real discovery. The Lessona and Bramaterra regions are some of the oldest wine-producing regions known in Italy, dating back to 1671.The wines are based largely on Nebbiolo but also include small amounts of Croatina and Vespolina in some of the blends. The regions are a few hours north of the famed Barolo and Barbaresco regions but fans of Nebbiolo will love the unique expression.
There is not much of this wine made and a good chunk of it is allocated. We are happy to have some. And kudos to importer extraordinaire, Oliver McCrum for ferreting out these gems!
2005 Sella Bramaterra Piemonte $34.99
(90 Points: Wine Advocate) The 2005 Bramaterra is a joyous wine for its generous core of red fruit and finessed, silky tannins. This is an especially pure, elegant Bramaterra with gorgeous textural balance and a long, refreshing finish. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2013.
2003 Sella Lessona Riserva Omaggio A Quintino Sella $64.99
(91 Points: Wine Advocate) The 2003 Lessona Omaggio a Quintino Sella is an utterly beguiling wine. Bold, assertive aromatics lead to an expansive core of sweet perfumed fruit, with wild herb, mint, spice, mineral and French oak overtones that are layered into the wine. There is lovely clarity and precision here, along with a prominent vein of minerality that gives the wine its sense of proportion. This is a terrific effort from Sella. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2023.
