Once upon a time, there was a wine.
It had noble roots, gracing the grandest courts of Europe, basking in luxury and indulgence. Like a flamboyant conductor, it orchestrated the rhythm of high society. With its ruby-red colour, seductive floral aromas, a playful hint of black pepper, and tannins that demanded attention, it was impossible to ignore.
Its name? Grignolino. A black grape variety from Monferrato—one of the favourites of the House of Savoy.
It was never a wine to follow the rules. Its personality was more passion and poetry than everyday familiarity. But, like all great protagonists, it had its weaknesses.
Grignolino was delicate, unpredictable, and difficult to work with—its grapes were small but abundant, making vinification a challenge. And so, after its glory days at the Savoy court, it began to fade into obscurity.
By the 1970s and ‘80s, with the wine market growing fast, Grignolino struggled to keep up. Its challenges became its downfall, and for a moment, it seemed the story was over.
But, as in every great tale, the most stubborn characters never give up.
Grignolino—nicknamed “testadura” (hard-headed) by the legendary wine writer Luigi Veronelli—was never one to disappear quietly. Its wild beauty, rebellious nature, and irresistible charm were simply unforgettable.
And so, with time, the winds of fortune changed.
Today, the Monferrato Casalese region is reclaiming its identity, rediscovering its strengths, and investing in its most unique treasures. Grignolino has answered the call.
Through collective projects, new labels, historical research, and an unwavering passion, this iconic Monferrato wine has found its voice again.
The voice of excellence. The voice of a story that has reclaimed its own ending.
From Monferrato,
Sabine & the Tenuta Tenaglia Team
