Meriame

Meriame sits within the commune of Serralunga d'Alba, one of Barolo's most celebrated townships for concentrated, age-worthy wines. The vineyard forms a natural amphitheater between the hamlets of Baudana and Lazzarito, two other well-regarded localities in this part of the appellation. This bowl-shaped formation provides natural shelter and promotes even ripening across the site. The elevation range, from 230 to 370 meters above sea level, is significant for a Serralunga vineyard and contributes to the diurnal temperature variation that preserves aromatic complexity in the finished wines.

• Sits between the Baudana and Lazzarito localities in Serralunga d'Alba
• Natural amphitheater formation provides sheltered microclimate conditions
• Elevation range of 230 to 370 meters supports aromatic complexity through diurnal shift
• South-southwest orientation maximizes sun exposure and extends the growing season

The soils at Meriame are characteristic of Serralunga d'Alba's Helvetian geological formation, composed primarily of calcareous clay, limestone, marly clay, and sandy marl with fossilized marls of Sant'Agata. These compacted, nutrient-poor soils stress the vine, driving roots deep and producing low-yielding, concentrated fruit. The continental Alpine climate brings warm summers and cold winters, while autumn fog, known locally as nebbia, settles in the valley below. The south-southwest exposure at Meriame prolongs the effective growing season, giving Nebbiolo the extended hang time it requires to fully ripen its thick skins and resolve its famously assertive tannin structure.

• Helvetian-era soils feature calcareous clay, limestone, and Sant'Agata fossilized marls
• Compact, nutrient-poor structure drives deep root development and concentrated yields
• Autumn fog in the valley below does not compromise the elevated, sun-exposed site
• South-southwest aspect extends the growing season, critical for late-ripening Nebbiolo

Meriame produces Barolo in the classic Serralunga mold: powerful, structured, and built for the long haul. The wines show a compelling aromatic profile that combines floral notes of violets and jasmine with the savory, earthy qualities of tar and mushroom. On the palate, elegant red fruit is framed by polished but firm tannins and a complex, driving acidity. This combination of floral aromatics with structural authority is a hallmark of well-sited Serralunga Nebbiolo. The wines reward patience in the cellar and develop considerable complexity with age.

• Floral aromatics include violets and jasmine alongside savory tar and mushroom notes
• Firm, polished tannins and complex acidity define the structural profile
• Elegant red fruit character balanced by Serralunga's characteristic austerity
• Built for long-term aging, typical of the Serralunga township style

Meriame holds the status of Menzione Geografica Aggiuntiva (MGA), the system of additional geographical mentions formally introduced for Barolo in 2010 to recognize specific vineyard sites of historical and qualitative significance. Paolo Manzone was ahead of the curve, using the Meriame name on labels as early as 1999, more than a decade before official MGA labeling was permitted. This early adoption reflects the site's established reputation among serious producers. Notable estates working with Meriame fruit include Paolo Manzone, Agricola Brandini, Enrico Serafino, Villadoria, Mirafiore, Luigi Vico, Azienda Agricola Sukula, and Boasso Franco.