The Avamposti 'Ventura' Pinot Nero is a remarkable Piemontese red, sourced from the cooler hills of Il Cascinone. It features unmistakable varietal characteristics with a hint of spice, alongside aromas of wild raspberry, crunchy cherry, and deeper black fruit. This wine boasts a juicy and savoury finish that is balanced by its bright acidity and soft tannins.

About the Producer

Il Cascinone was acquired by leading Piemonte producer Araldica in 1999 - an exceptional estate in the Monferrato hills which has undergone extensive restoration and replanting. Now around 70ha of the total 102ha are in full production, with the warmer, southwest-facing slopes used to grow Barbera, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon - whilst the northeast slopes are ideal for more aromatic varieties Brachetto and Moscato, along with Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.

The 'Il Cascinone' range (and part of the Alasia range) is produced with grapes sourced from Araldica’s most prized vineyards, both on the estate itself and from other selected sites. This includes the further d'Annona vineyard in the village of Fontanile - purchased by Claudio Manera in 1998. This south-west facing vineyard is a source of premium quality Barbera, from vines over 60 years old. Grapes from d'Annona are brought to Il Cascinone for vinification.

All harvesting at Il Cascinone and d'Annona is by hand. The Araldica winemaking team of Claudio Manera, Lella Burdese and Carlo Manera oversee all production.

Vineyard and Winery

Grapes for the Ventura Pinot Nero were sourced from a single plot at 350m above sea level, featuring chalky soils in the Monferrato hills of Italy. Following experiments with previous vintages, the winemakers opted to blend two portions – 50% using stainless steel and 20% with whole bunches, with the remaining 50% crushed and fermented in large wooden caskets. Malolactic fermentation was also conducted in stainless steel, with the finished wine maturing for 12 months in 75% large cask and 25% barrique oak barrels prior to bottling.