Francesco Rinaldi - Grignolino d'Asti Piemonte is home to a number of grape varietals such as Dolcetto, Barbera, and Nebbiolo. But among these is also Grignolino, a local favorite in the Asti area (about 25 mil. northeast of Barolo). It is said that the origin of the funny sounding name of this grape varietal, “Grignolino", comes from the word "grignole", that in the local dialect identifies the seeds inside the grape of which Grignolino is rich. Another theory comes from the verb “grignare” which in the Asti dialect means “to laugh”. The first news about Grignolino date back to the 16th century. The records show that as early as the 14th century the wine was used mainly to make "chiaretti", a rose’ wine. Once, the Grignolino growing area was much wider but the spread of diseases destroyed most of the more delicate Grignolino vines. Appellation: Grignolino d’Asti DOC Type: red, dry Grape Variety: 100% Grignolino d’Asti Region: Piemonte Vineyard: Montaldo Scarampi (Asti), 600ft. a.s.l., eastern exposure. Soil: light and sandy. Planting System: Guyot Harvest: mid-September. Vinyard Notes: Yield: 3.5 tons per acre Vinification: short fermentation in stainless steel tank. Winemaking Aging: four months in stainless steel tanks. Notes: Total Production: 6.000 bottles Color: light ruby red Bouquet: delicate with fresh fruit and a hint of rose petals. Taste: dry, fresh, floral and thin on the palate. Food Pairings: antipasti, soups, quiches, fish and white meat dishes. Tasting Notes: Serving temperature: 54°-60°F www.vinitywinecompany.com 5950 Doyle Street, Emeryville, CA 94608 t: 510-601-6010 .