Siblings Ezio – an oenologist – and Mary Poggio are the third generation of their family to farm in the majestic Val Borbera in Piedmont. During Roman times, grape growing, and winemaking was widespread here and at the core of the valley’s cultural identity. Sadly, this changed in the aftermath of the Second World War, when many farmers left their homes to find work in the cities. Piedmont is certainly best known for Barbera and Nebbiolo, yet it is also home to an ancient, local white variety called Timorasso.

This lesser-known grape can produce sensational, age-worthy white wines that are uniquely Piedmontese. Ezio Poggio is part of a growing legion of Timorasso evangelists who believe that this grape, from this place, makes wines to be reckoned with. His efforts have certainly paid off, and the Renaissance of Timorasso is now in full swing. Jancis Robinson recently commented ‘I know from experience that Timorasso can age well’, indicating that Ezio’s belief in the variety certainly holds true. This once-forgotten Piedmont grape is alive and kicking.