Cà Grossa

The name Cà Grossa translates literally to 'large house' or 'big estate' in Piedmontese dialect, and it reflects the defining characteristic of this vineyard site: it is the largest single-body plot of land within the Barbaresco production zone. This distinction is not merely nominal. The estate appears on 18th-century cartographic records preserved at the State Archives of Turin, confirming its long-standing presence in the agricultural and viticultural history of the Langhe. This documented heritage places Cà Grossa among the historically significant named sites of Barbaresco.

• Name derives from Piedmontese dialect meaning 'large estate' or 'big house'
• Documented on 18th-century maps at the State Archives of Turin
• Largest single-body plot in the Barbaresco production zone
• One of the formally recognized MGAs in the Barbaresco DOCG

Cà Grossa sits at 250 meters above sea level in the Barbaresco commune, benefiting from a southeastern to south/southwestern exposure that maximizes sunlight during the critical ripening window for Nebbiolo. The soils are calcareous-clay in character, incorporating marly limestone and sandstone, a combination typical of the Tortonian and Helvetian geological formations that underpin much of the Barbaresco zone. This soil profile promotes good drainage while retaining enough mineral complexity to support Nebbiolo's structural requirements. The climate is continental with maritime influence, moderated by proximity to the Ligurian Alps.

• Elevation: 250 meters above sea level
• Aspect: southeastern to south/southwestern
• Soils: calcareous-clay with marly limestone and sandstone
• Climate: continental with maritime moderation

Nebbiolo from Cà Grossa produces wines described as sophisticated, complex, and finessed. The site's combination of well-drained calcareous soils and generous sun exposure contributes to wines that show characteristic Barbaresco refinement rather than the weightier power associated with some Barolo sites. Floral notes of lavender and wisteria are prominent, alongside blackberry fruit, reflecting both the varietal character of Nebbiolo and the particular expression of this MGA. The structural framework of tannin and acidity typical of Nebbiolo is present, but the overall impression leans toward elegance.

• Aromatic profile dominated by lavender, wisteria, and blackberry
• Style is sophisticated and finessed rather than overtly powerful
• Nebbiolo is the sole grape variety grown
• Calcareous soils contribute to mineral complexity and structural precision

Several producers work with fruit from Cà Grossa, each bringing their own interpretation to this distinctive site. La Vedetta, Pier Paolo Grasso, and Mascarello are among the names associated with the MGA. The relatively large size of the plot, being the biggest single-body vineyard in the district, means that multiple producers can source from within its boundaries while the MGA designation on the label signals the specific geographic origin to consumers and professionals alike.

• La Vedetta produces wine from this MGA
• Pier Paolo Grasso is a notable Cà Grossa producer
• Mascarello also works with this site
• The MGA designation appears on labels under Barbaresco DOCG rules