La Morandina

 “La Morandina…has consistently been terrific over the years.”
– Antonio Galloni

While the Moscato d’Asti appellation might not immediately bring to mind artisanal wine production, that’s exactly what La Morandina is all about. With 20 hectares under vine and less than 10,000 cases produced per year, attention to detail is paramount here. Forgive us if we wax poetic, but their Moscato is as transporting as it gets—like biting into a fresh bunch of organically grown grapes right at harvest time. Giulio and Paolo Morando have records that tie their family to these lands back into the 16th century – although it wasn’t until 1988 that they purchased the vineyards that they farm to this day. Their cru, Bricco Francia, lies between 200-275 meters above sea level with south east exposure, and gives a moscato that leaps from the glass with aromas of sage and mint. The calcareous clay soils give their wines notable structure and longevity. The brothers are also staunch environmentalists – they have dedicated themselves to sustainable agriculture for over 30 years. 

Vineyard Practices: In this estate strict organic practices have been utilized for over 30 years, in fact chemical pesticides were eliminated at that time and replaced with sulfur- and copper-based products, manure and compost. Biological control is used against some kinds of pests. Leguminous plants are sown on the rows between the vines. Giulio and Paolo Morando closely collaborate with the University of Turin, where their uncle Albino has taught viticulture for many years, and a considerable amount of research work is carried out at the estate. Low doses of SO2 in the wines.