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Other | Piedmont, Italy
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Discover the soul of Piedmont with Mazzetti d'Altavilla's 'Radici' Grappa di Grignolino. This exquisite spirit is a homage to tradition, crafted by one of Italy’s oldest and most prestigious distilleries, founded in 1846 in the heart of the Monferrato hills. Unlike wines that are crafted from the juice of the grape, this grappa is a refined distillate of fresh pomace—the skins, seeds, and stems—of the Grignolino grape, an ancient and highly distinct varietal known for its intensity and rustic elegance.
The name 'Radici' (Roots) symbolizes the deep connection to the terroir. Grignolino is famously known as the 'blockhead' grape due to its high seed content, which imparts a unique, structured tannic bite and complex aromatic profile. Mazzetti honors these characteristics through a careful, discontinuous distillation process in traditional copper stills, resulting in a crystal-clear spirit that is unaged, allowing the purity of the raw material to shine through. On the nose, you will be greeted by delicate and soft whispers of dried fruit and floral wisteria. On the palate, it delivers a sophisticated, bone-dry experience that is balanced, intense, and exceptionally persistent, often finished with a pleasant, subtle hint of almond.
This grappa is not just a drink; it is a ritual. It is best enjoyed as a 'digestivo' after a meal, serving as the perfect conclusion to a fine dining experience. Its robust and dry character makes it a superb companion for rich, savory dishes—think of braised beef such as the traditional Piedmontese 'Fat Ox'—or as a delightful contrast to the sweetness of a wild berry pie or dark chocolate desserts. Serving it at around 12°C will allow its complex bouquet to unfurl fully, providing a refined tasting experience that lingers on the senses. Choosing this bottle means bringing a piece of historic Piedmontese craftsmanship to your table, a testament to the artistry of distilling where the 'waste' of the harvest is transformed into an unparalleled liquid gold. Whether you are a dedicated grappa enthusiast or exploring the world of Italian spirits for the first time, 'Radici' offers an authentic, unvarnished expression of its land, designed for those who appreciate the honest, complex beauty of traditional distillation.