Exploring a family winery in the eart of Asti

Welcome back to the second day of our journey through the Asti wine region! Are you ready to continue with the incredible experiences from our visit to Azienda Agricola Carlin de Paolo?

If you’re new, you can begin your journey here!

This figure is demonstrating the working nature of the family. (Photo: Lotte Gabrovits)

A Culinary Delight at Carlin de' Paolo's "Merenderia"

Well, lets kick off. Our journey continued as we ventured to Azienda Agricola Carlin de' Paolo. A warm Italian welcome awaited us, and we couldn't have asked for a better way to continue our day. We had the pleasure of exploring their beautiful "Merenderia," a space that serves as both an office and a charming bistro. Located in the midst of their vineyards, this modern structure was built in 2018, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It was the perfect setting for our group to learn more about the Carlin de' Paolo story and enjoy some exquisite food and wine.

Nebbiolo Superiore L'Ascensiun served with Ravioli filled with meat and local herbs. (Photo: Lotte Gabrovits)

Four Brothers, One Passion

At Carlin de' Paolo, the tradition of viticulture and winemaking runs deep. The winery was officially founded in 2000, but the family's connection to the land and their passion for wine date back generations. The estate is now managed by four brothers, each contributing their unique talents to the business. Paolo, the eldest, oversees the winery, while Lorenzo is the culinary artist, crafting exceptional meals to pair with their wines. David takes care of the cellar work, ensuring that the winemaking process is executed to perfection, and Jean-Carlo manages the business side of things. Together, they form a dynamic team dedicated to producing top-quality wines that reflect the terroir of their beloved Asti.

David and his wife on his right talking about the loads of Moscato d’Asti shippings to different export markets (Photo: Lotte Gabrovits)

Sustainable Practices and Environmental Stewardship

One of the things that sets Carlin de' Paolo apart is their commitment to sustainability. They have always adhered to strict standards when it comes to pesticide use, favoring a natural approach to viticulture. In 2023, they received the prestigious "Equalitas" certification for their efforts, a testament to their dedication to environmental stewardship. These practices ensure that their vineyards remain healthy, vibrant, and capable of producing the highest quality grapes for their wines.

Lotte Gabrovits getting an insight into the cellars of Carlin De Paolo (Photo: Lotte Gabrovits)

Exploring the Vineyards

Carlin de' Paolo's vineyards are not only a source of pride but also a place where visitors can truly connect with the winery's essence. The estate spans a little over 40 hectares, with some vineyards being directly managed by the family, while others are worked by their skilled hands. To enhance the visitor experience, they offer e-bike tours through the vineyards, allowing guests to soak in the breathtaking surroundings. Families are in for a treat as well, as they can enjoy the charming company of a donkey and a horse—a highlight especially for the little ones.

While it is a donkey that amuses the kids, the motorbike is a highlight in the “Merenderia” for the grown ups. (Photo: Lotte Gabrovits)

An Unforgettable Tasting Experience

Our visit to Carlin de' Paolo wouldn't be complete without indulging in some of their fantastic wines. Here are a few of the notable selections we had the privilege of tasting:

• Barbera d'Asti 2022: This wine immediately captivated our palates with its refreshing acidity and intriguing spice notes, perfectly balanced with its slightly elevated alcohol content.
• Barbera d'Asti Superiore 2020 "Ad Bibitum": A true delight for the senses, this wine exuded an abundance of cherry flavors. Its charm was undeniable, with gentle, elegant notes, though it carried a hint of volatility.
• Nebbiolo Superiore L'Ascensiun 2020: A wine that left us spellbound with its super-perfumed, light, and accessible character. This Nebbiolo demonstrated remarkable softness and elegance, a unique take on the variety.
• 2017 Bricco Della Cappelletta 15% Croatina: While we explored the rich history of this wine, it showed signs of oxidation, lending it earthy and leathery characteristics. It clearly demonstrated hints of aging.

Our visit to Carlin de' Paolo was nothing short of unforgettable. We discovered the deep-rooted traditions and sustainable practices that guide their winemaking. The wines showcased the dedication and expertise of the four brothers, creating flavors that capture the spirit of the Asti region. Our journey through Asti continues, so stay tuned for more exciting discoveries and wine adventures.

If you can't wait until then, get a taste of Asti and its treasures by checking out Vinovoss.

Lotte Gabrovits