The Baratuciat grape: The white wonder of Piedmont

The autochthonous grape variety Baratuciat (which translates in the local dialect to something like "cat's testicles," mimicking the characteristic, elongated shape of the berries) had almost completely vanished from the scene. Only a few decades ago, some of the last remaining ancient vines were discovered and rescued from private gardens. By nature, the Baratuciat grape is characterized by a remarkable, crisp acidity structure, a thick skin, and immense aromatic potential. Today, winemakers like Andrea Scovero prove that this rare grape is among the most exciting discoveries in the white natural wine scene in Italy, yielding wines of considerable depth and aging potential.

Deep and vibrant structure: The character of Baratuciat 2021

For the Bianco Baratuciat 2021 from Andrea Scovero, the grapes are carefully hand-harvested and spontaneously fermented with the wine's own wild yeasts in amphorae. The unadorned aging process takes place in steel tanks and used wooden casks, with minimal sulfur usage and no fining or filtration, ensuring that the entire, original aromatics and the fascinating phenolics of this rare grape remain alive in the glass.

• On the Nose: An immensely multi-layered, inviting bouquet. It reveals aromas of ripe yellow apple, juicy quince, and bright field flowers, beautifully balanced by notes of dried herbs, beeswax, and a fine, savory minerality.

• On the Palate: Powerful, taut, and with an engaging grip. The present, perfectly integrated acidity of the Baratuciat grape lends the wine tremendous freshness, while the brief contact with the lees ensures a creamy, dense body. A subtle, almost red-wine-like phenolic texture gives the wine structure and muscle on the palate.

• The Finish: Long, dry, and grippingly mineral, with a wonderfully clean, slightly savory finish that lingers beautifully.

Food pairing & serving recommendation

The Bianco Baratuciat 2021 from Andrea Scovero is not a classic aperitif white wine, but rather an excellent food companion on par with sophisticated dishes. It pairs outstandingly with creamy risotto (e.g., with herbs or fine goat cheese), grilled or baked saltwater fish, white meat like veal or chicken in light sauces, as well as fine pasta with mature Pecorino or alpine cheese variations.

Tip from oneder.wine: As a vibrant natural wine, this white wine also benefits from a little air before enjoying. Please do not drink the Bianco Baratuciat 2021 from Andrea Scovero ice-cold, but ideally at 10–12 °C in a slightly larger white wine glass, so that the complex aromatic structure of this rare grape variety can fully unfold.