As seen in Forbes: artisan barrique-aged grappa made from Pinot Nero grape skins, aged for three years in acacia, oak and cherry wood casks

This grappa offers delicious flavours of red grapefruit with a touch of saltiness, supported by undertones of cinnamon and black pepper. It is produced in the artisan distillery of the Dolzan family, which traces its history back to 1489. Located in Mezzolombardo, Trentino, the distillery is nestled in the foothills of the mighty Dolomite Alps.

Villa de Varda is not just a distillery – the family also has their own vineyard. By growing their own grapes, the Dolzan family can follow their ethos and control the quality of their grappa from start to finish. They will never be a big producer, focusing instead on producing small batches of incredible grappa. Because quantities are so low, only a few very lucky people get to experience these exceptional spirits. We’re proud to be able to offer them to our customers.

Preparation

For this premium line of grappa, Mauro Dolzan (the master distiller) selects only the best Pinot Nero grapes from the family vineyard. It is very important that Villa de Varda only uses its own grapes. These are lightly pressed, so the skins are wet with grape juice. Then, the skins are removed and distilled in copper stills (pictured). They operate on a slow discontinuous cycle, to ensure that the volatile components evaporate while capturing the precious flavours of the grape.

After distillation, the grappa is left to rest in stainless steel vats for six months. After this, the distillation-strength spirit is diluted to 40% with spring water from the Dolomites, chilled, and filtered.

Ageing

The Dolzan family has perfected their ageing technique over many decades. To become the signature Pinot Nero Riserva Grappa, the spirit is aged in several casks: partly in oak, acacia and cherry wood. The ageing is a slow process, taking three years at a controlled temperature and humidity, to achieve the perfect maturation. Mauro then performs laboratory testing to control all key chemical parameters. Finally, after a careful tasting he blends the correct quantities from various casks to produce the Pinot Nero Riserva in the distillery’s house style.

Tasting notes

In the glass, this Pinot Nero Riserva Grappa has a clear, luminous amber colour. It offers flavours of red grapefruit, with a touch of saltiness, underpinned by notes of vanilla, cocoa, espresso and black pepper.

Awards

Falstaff Trophy 2019 – 94 points | ANAG 2020 – Premio Alambicco d’Oro (3rd place)