Cascina Tavijn Grignolino d'Asti 2012

Ratings

March 15, 2025

Wow. Nadia brought this bottle herself, and she was so adorably nervous about opening it - unsure whether it was still alive at all. But honestly, the experience alone was worth it.

Unfortunately, the wine wasn't in its best shape. It's not even about the Marsala-like notes, but more about the lack of acidity - it feels like the bottle has already passed its peak. And yet, the tannins remain strikingly powerful, which is almost comical in contrast. I've never had a relatively old Grignolino before, so I had no real expectations, and while this wasn't the most successful showing, it was still fascinating.

So, thank you, Nadia :)

About Producer

Cascina Tavijn, located in the overlooked Asti province of Piemonte, Italy, is a testament to the passionate and experimental spirit of its padronina, Nadia Verrua. Despite its modest size of approximately seven hectares, the winery stands out for its ambitious and diverse wine production. Nadia's approach is deeply rooted in the region's unique varietals, primarily focusing on Barbera, Grignolino, and Ruché. These indigenous grapes, particularly Grignolino and Ruché, have gained a cultish rise in popularity, reflecting the winery's influence in reviving and celebrating local varieties.

Nadia's journey in winemaking has been marked by a progressive shift from adhering to regional DOC and DOCG labels to a more liberated approach, allowing her greater creativity and expression in her wines. This evolution is evident in her historic wines, which have been renamed in honour of her parents – 'Ottavio' for Grignolino, 'Teresa' for Ruché, and 'La Bandita' for Barbera. Her experimental nature extends to the use of other varietals like Cortese, Moscato, Slarina, and Freisa, sourced from various means, including purchased fruit and newly planted vines. Nadia's commitment to natural winemaking is also notable, with a focus on limiting the use of sulfites and embracing organic farming practices.

The playful and colourful label designs by Gianluca Cannizzo, underpinning Nadia's vibrant personality and innovative approach, further emphasize the winery's unique character. Cascina Tavijn's wines, particularly their special bottlings, showcase the rich diversity and potential of the Asti region's indigenous grapes, making them a noteworthy contributor to the Italian wine landscape.