Enrico de Alessandrini on Barrel Fermentation: “Our goal is to capture the soul of Timorasso while pushing its boundaries. Barrel fermentation allows us to do just that – to achieve a harmonious balance between vibrant acidity, intricate flavors, and the subtle influence of oak.”
The Art and Science of Timorasso Fermentation in Barrique
In the heart of Piedmont, where tradition meets innovation, Sassaia is redefining the art of Timorasso winemaking. Central to our philosophy is the thoughtful and pioneering use of barrel fermentation—a technique we approach with both precision and a clear understanding of its rewards and challenges. At Sassaia, barrel fermentation is more than just a method; it’s an art. It’s a harmonious interplay between the grape, the oak, and our unwavering pursuit of excellence. We don’t follow trends—we create them, pushing the boundaries of what Timorasso can become through expert craftsmanship. While many rely on stainless steel, we embrace the richness and complexity that oak imparts, enhancing the varietal’s essence and unearthing layers of flavor and texture that might otherwise remain untapped. Barrel fermentation is the cornerstone of our vision, revealing Timorasso’s full potential with depth, elegance, and character.”
The Elegance of Fermentation in Barrique
Barrel fermentation represents a bridge between tradition and innovation, a method as rooted in history as it is shaped by modern understanding. By fermenting in oak barrels, we unlock a spectrum of flavors and textures unattainable through stainless steel alone. Oak fermentation enriches wine with precious aromatic compounds, such as thiols and terpenes, amplifying floral and fruit-forward aromas, while revealing lively citrus tones and subtle herbal nuances. These characteristics beautifully enhance Timorasso’s natural profiles of citrus intertwining with stone fruit, adding layers of complexity and depth. The gentle micro-oxygenation achieved in barrels ensures that flavors integrate harmoniously, producing a wine of softness, balance, and elegance.”
Balance acidity without over-extraction: Sassaia’s View on Maceration (Skin Contact) for Timorasso
Skin contact directly impacts pH. It increases pH by extracting potassium from grape skins, which forms potassium bitartrate. This reaction reduces free hydrogen ions (H+), resulting in a higher pH that softens the wine’s acidity. This method demands precision to strike the perfect balance, while preserving both freshness and structural integrity. Conversely, temperature-controlled barrel fermentations with minimal skin contact offer a more nuanced approach, gently softening acidity and enhancing complexity.
Excessive skin contact to balance Timorasso’s natural acidity can lead to over-extraction of TDN (1,1,6-Trimethyl-1,2-dihydronaphthalene), responsible for petrol-like aromas. While TDN adds complexity to some wines like Riesling, in Timorasso, it can overwhelm its signature elegance, fruitiness, and minerality.
Barrel fermentation provides a balanced alternative, enhancing structure and softening acidity through micro-oxygenation without prolonged skin contact. This method preserves Timorasso’s vibrancy while adding creamy textures and a layered aromatic profile. In addition to managing skin contact, controlling fermentation temperatures is another crucial aspect of preserving Timorasso’s delicate aromatics.
The Importance of Controlling Fermentation Temperatures to retain aromatics:
Another critical factor lies in fermentation styles. The choice between low-temperature, slow natural fermentation and inoculated fermentation, carried out at higher temperatures over shorter durations, significantly shapes the integration of flavor compounds.
Low-temperature, slow natural fermentations allow for a more delicate and intricate extraction of compounds. Lactones, which evoke creamy, coconut-like profiles, emerge in subdued, harmonious ways, while aldehydes provide gentle nutty or sherry-like nuances. Potentially problematic volatile phenols, contributing smoky, spicy, or medicinal characteristics, are naturally introduced with moderation, enriching the aromatic profile without overwhelming the wine. (See graph below)
Sassaia’s Derthona low temp, below 20 C, and rich 28 day fermentation process.
- Inoculated fermentations, on the other hand, tend to produce bolder, more pronounced flavors due to their higher temperatures and faster progression. This process enhances the development of compounds like lactones and aldehydes, resulting in richer textures and more vibrant aromas. However, these conditions can also amplify volatile phenols, such as guaiacol or 4-ethylphenol, which contribute smoky, spicy, or medicinal notes. To maintain the wine’s balance, careful management is essential to prevent these elements from becoming overpowering.
Enrico and his team taste and test each and every barrique monthly to evaluate phenolic development.
As shown in the graph above, volatile phenols are tested monthly and compared to tasting notes to ensure optimal development and selection of our Derthona and Derthona Platinum: a special selection from our finest barrels.
For Sassaia’s Timorasso, time, temperature and technique converge meticulously to create an expressive wine that embodies balance and innovation. Every decision, from fermentation to the choice of barrique, is made with the intention of respecting the natural qualities of the grape by elevating complexity.
A Testimony of Passion and Precision Many producers in Piedmont focus on stainless steel fermentation for Timorasso. At Sassaia, we are pioneers in embracing barrel fermentation. This sets us apart and allows us to create Timorasso with unparalleled depth and complexity. While some fear that oak will mask the varietal’s character, we have proven that it can elevate it, revealing hidden dimensions.
Sassaia’s Timorasso is more than a wine; it is a reflection of heritage, craftsmanship and an unwavering commitment to quality. Rooted in the timeless traditions of Piedmont but shaped by modern art and enology, this wine tells a story of balance, elegance and discovery with every sip. Discover the art behind the winemaking of Sassaia. Visit our website to immerse yourself in our philosophy and explore the exceptional selection of Timorasso wines that have redefined elegance and innovation. Your next great wine experience awaits! Come and visit us in the winery to experience and savor an unforgettable emotion!
