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What is Timorasso? Timorasso is an indigenous white grape found almost exclusively in the Colli Tortonesi DOC in Piedmont. The wine stands apart from other Italian whites through its exceptional combination of qualities: it is fresh yet full, aromatic yet mineral, with an ageing potential of ten years or more. Young Timorasso tastes of white peach, citrus and white blossom; aged bottles develop notes of honey, beeswax and roasted nuts. The best known and most respected designation is Timorasso Derthona , made from 100% Timorasso from the finest vineyards of the Colli Tortonesi.
The story behind the grape By the end of the twentieth century, Timorasso was on the verge of disappearing. One headstrong winemaker, Walter Massa, saved this rare grape from oblivion and changed the wine world for good.
Buying Timorasso: which style suits you? Timorasso is not made in a single style. Depending on the age of the bottle and the winemaker's approach, you get a very different glass. The overview below helps you choose.
Style Age Character Perfect for Young Derthona 1 to 3 years Fresh, aromatic, peach and citrus Drinking now, fish dishes, aperitif Aged Derthona 4 to 8 years Complex, honey, beeswax, mineral Poultry, mature cheese, truffle dishes Derthona Riserva 8 years and older Deep, roasted, long finish Special occasions, the wine lover
Young Timorasso Derthona A young Timorasso Derthona immediately shows what the grape is known for: an expressive bouquet of white peach, apricot and citrus blossom, carried by a lively acidity that keeps the palate fresh. Despite its youth, it already has more depth than most other Italian whites. This is the style for anyone discovering Timorasso or serving it straight at the table. Ideal with fish, seafood and light pasta dishes.
Aged Timorasso Derthona After four to eight years in bottle, Timorasso changes character noticeably. The fresh fruit gives way to deeper, more complex aromas: honey, beeswax, chamomile and a distinctive minerality reminiscent of well-kept white Burgundy. The texture becomes fuller and richer, while the acidity keeps the wine alive for years. This is the Timorasso for special plates: poultry, truffle or mature cheese.
Derthona Riserva Not every producer releases a Riserva, but those who do show what Timorasso can be in its most ambitious form. After eight years or more, the wine develops a depth and complexity that places it among the very greatest white wines of Europe. Roasted nuts, deep fruit, a long mineral finish. A bottle to save for a special moment.
How do you choose a good Timorasso? What to look for Why it matters The designation "Derthona" Guarantees 100% Timorasso from the Colli Tortonesi DOC Vintage on the label Timorasso ages well; know whether you are buying young or aged Producer from the Colli Tortonesi Small winemakers with a terroir-driven approach Price Good Timorasso costs 18 to 40 euros or more; be wary of bottles that seem too cheap
Serving Timorasso: temperature and glassware Aspect Advice Why Temperature 12 to 14°C Warmer than standard white; complex aromas open up better Glassware Wide Burgundy glass A large surface lets the wine breathe and unfold its aromas Decanting 30 minutes in a carafe Especially for younger bottles: the difference between good and exceptional Cellaring 10 years and longer Develops complexity; preferably in a cool, dark cellar
What is the difference between Timorasso and Derthona? Timorasso is the name of the grape; Derthona is the name winemakers in the Colli Tortonesi use for their best, 100% Timorasso wines, after the Latin word for the town of Tortona. All Derthona is Timorasso, but not all Timorasso carries the Derthona designation. The name Derthona is a mark of quality found on the most artisanal bottles of the region.
Buy Timorasso at ONWINE At ONWINE you buy Timorasso directly from the Piedmontese winemaker, without middlemen and at fair prices. Our range includes both approachable young Derthona and aged bottles for the serious wine lover. Explore the range or visit our wine store in Utrecht for personal advice.