An Interview with Ca’ Rome Winery

The Ca’Rome Vineyards

What is the history of the land you are on? What was it used for before your winery owned it or did someone else owned it previously?

The vineyards in Serralunga belonged to my grandmother (Maria di Brün). But they were vineyards even before that. Same goes for the Barbaresco Vineyards.

What clones and selections are used?

We use Michet and Lampia.

Where does the water sources for the vineyard(s) come from?

The water for the vineyards comes from the sky, natural. Irrigation it isn’t allowed.

What trellising systems does the winery use? Why do you prefer that system?

Upwards-trained vertical-trellising with Guyot pruning.

Do any of your vineyards have names? Yes, if so, is there a story behind those names?

Rio Sordo takes its name from a small river below the hill. This river is very small so it doesn’t make noise. Rio Sordo means “deaf river.”

Maria di Brün is a selection of Barbaresco dedicated to “Maria from the township of Brüni” in Serralunga d’Alba.

Cerretta takes its name from the township of Cerretta in Serralunga d’Alba.

Rapet is located in the Cerretta MGA and the name Rapet means small grape in dialect. In 1986, this vineyard was hit by a hailstorm that led to bunches with small grapes.

Chiaramanti in located in the MGA Rio Sordo and is an old family brand.

If you have large vineyards, do you only use a portion of the vineyard to produce specific wines? How did you choose what portions to use?

We have only small vineyards.

The Ca’ Rome Winery & Winemaking Process

What makes your winery different from others in the region?

My philosophy is to concentrate on my work and never compare myself to others. To do my best in the cellar and in the vineyards, respect nature, and focus on Nebbiolo and Barbera. I don’t need to increase production right now.  But to focus on what I make and sell it better. Forget trends to stay relevant. And cultivate lasting relationships.

What vintage had the most challenges and what were those challenges?

1982- 1985-1988-1996- 2010- 2016 were great years thank to climate conditions.

How did you overcome them?

Consider the weather conditions first, then concentrate on pruning and green harvest.

What cooperage does the winery use?

We have oak 25-hl Slavonian and French barrique.

Is there a philosophy around cooperage?

The wine needs time in oak. But at the same time, it’s important to remove at the exact right moment.