# Quatr Nas (2021)

- **Producer:** Podere Rocche dei Manzoni di Valentino
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Nebbiolo, Pinot Nero, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon
- **Region:** Piemonte, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €48
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** violet, rose, almond blossom, black cherry, black plum, vanilla, cloves, cedar, smoke, chocolate, dried fruit, leather, earth, tobacco

## About this wine

Quatr Nas, meaning 'Four Noses' in Piedmontese dialect, is a distinctive red wine from Podere Rocche dei Manzoni di Valentino, first produced in 1996. This Langhe Rosso DOC is a unique blend, featuring approximately 50% Nebbiolo alongside Pinot Nero, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, a concept that merges the traditional territorial imprint of the Langhe with international varietal character. The grapes are sourced from estate-owned vineyards exclusively within Monforte d'Alba, a prime location in Piedmont known for its exceptional terroir. Founded by Valentino Migliorini and now managed by his son Rodolfo, Podere Rocche dei Manzoni is a pioneering estate, recognized for its early adoption of Langhe blends and the use of French barriques for aging. The winery's philosophy centers on minimal intervention, allowing the grapes and terroir to express themselves, with a meticulous approach to aging.

## Interesting facts

- The name 'Quatr Nas' means 'Four Noses' in Piedmontese dialect, highlighting the four grape varieties in the blend.
- First produced in 1996, it was conceived to marry the Langhe's territorial identity with international flair.
- The producer was an early adopter of French barriques for aging red wines in the Langhe.
- The estate's vineyards are entirely within the Monforte d'Alba municipality.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and structured tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of proteins like beef, lamb, and game. The wine's complexity and potential for savory notes can stand up to robust flavors, while its elegance can be enhanced by dishes with aromatic herbs or subtle fruit components.

## Wine making process

Quatr Nas is crafted through a philosophy of minimal intervention, allowing the inherent qualities of the grapes and the Monforte d'Alba terroir to shine. Each of the four grape varieties—Nebbiolo, Pinot Nero, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon—is vinified separately to capture its distinct character. The final blend is assembled just prior to bottling. A significant aspect of the winemaking involves aging in new small oak barrels (barriques) for several months, a technique pioneered by the estate in the Langhe region. Following barrel aging, the wine rests in egg-shaped concrete tanks, a method adopted since 2008, before its final maturation in the bottle. The producer also emphasizes sustainable practices, operating a certified biodynamic estate and a biologically run winery.