L.A. Cetto Nebbiolo Reserva 2015

L.A. Cetto Nebbiolo Reserva: A Mexican Masterclass in Italian Excellence

Uncorking Baja California's Soul: A Look at L.A. Cetto Nebbiolo Reserva

Nestled in the heart of Baja California, Mexico, L.A. Cetto crafts exceptional wines that bridge the gap between the Old World and New. Their Nebbiolo Reserva is a prime example, showcasing the power and finesse of this noble Italian grape variety grown under the Mexican sun.

A Feast for the Senses: Exploring the L.A. Cetto Nebbiolo Reserva

Visual Delights: Pour yourself a glass of L.A. Cetto Nebbiolo Reserva and be greeted by a captivating sight. The wine boasts a deep ruby red core, transitioning to elegant purple hues at the rim. This rich colour hints at the intensity of flavours waiting to be explored.

Aromatic Intrigue: Swirl the glass and unleash a captivating bouquet. Dominated by aromas of ripe black fruits, such as blackberry and black cherry, the L.A. Cetto Nebbiolo Reserva offers a delightful surprise. Hints of earth, truffle, and damp straw emerge, adding complexity and intrigue. Subtle notes of tea and leather complete the aromatic profile, suggesting a well-aged and sophisticated wine.

The Palate Profile: The first sip of L.A. Cetto Nebbiolo Reserva reveals a full-bodied wine with a surprising elegance. The initial burst of ripe black fruit flavours gives way to a symphony of secondary and tertiary notes. Spicy black pepper dances on the tongue alongside hints of liquorice and cocoa. The earthiness from the nose translates beautifully on the palate, offering a grounding sense of minerality.

Tannic Grip and Finish: The L.A. Cetto Nebbiolo Reserva boasts well-structured tannins that provide a pleasant grip on the palate. These tannins are fine-grained and integrated, suggesting a wine with excellent ageing potential. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lingering impression of dark fruit, leather, and a touch of earth.

Food Pairings to Complement the L.A. Cetto Nebbiolo Reserva

The bold character and complex flavours of L.A. Cetto Nebbiolo Reserva demand equally assertive food pairings. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

• Rich Meat Dishes: This wine pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted red meats like lamb chops, ribeye steak, or venison. The Nebbiolo's acidity cuts through the richness of the meat, while the tannins complement the texture.
• Hearty Pasta Dishes: Pair the L.A. Cetto Nebbiolo Reserva with a hearty pasta dish like pappardelle with wild boar ragu or tagliatelle with a rich beef ragu. The bold flavours of the wine will stand up to the robust tomato-based sauces and the meaty elements.
• Mushroom Risotto: Earthy notes abound in both the wine and the risotto, making this a match made in heaven. The creaminess of the risotto will soften the tannins in the wine, creating a harmonious and satisfying combination.
• Aged Cheeses: L.A. Cetto Nebbiolo Reserva pairs exceptionally well with aged cheeses like Pecorino Romano, Gorgonzola, or aged Gouda. The powerful flavours of the wine complement the sharpness and richness of the cheese.

Beyond the Bottle: The Story of L.A. Cetto

Founded in 1928 by don Angelo Cetto, L.A. Cetto is a pioneer in the Mexican wine industry.  Located in the Valle de Guadalupe, the heart of Baja California's wine country, the winery benefits from a unique confluence of factors. The cool Pacific Ocean breezes moderate the warm Mexican climate, resulting in grapes that retain their acidity while achieving optimal ripeness.

L.A. Cetto's dedication to quality is evident in their meticulous grape selection and winemaking techniques. The Nebbiolo Reserva undergoes a meticulous ageing process, spending time in a combination of French and American oak barrels. This ageing process refines the tannins and imparts additional layers of complexity to the wine.

In Conclusion: A Baja Californian Gem

L.A. Cetto Nebbiolo Reserva is a testament to the potential of Mexican wine. It delivers an exceptional expression of the Nebbiolo grape, showcasing its power, elegance, and ageing potential.  With its captivating flavour profile and versatility with food pairings, this wine is sure to impress even the most discerning wine enthusiast.