Azelia
History and Background
Founded in 1920 by Lorenzo Scavino, Azelia is situated in the Barolo region of Piedmont, Italy. This family-run winery, now under the stewardship of Luigi Scavino, fifth generation, has gained distinction for its meticulous vineyard management and winemaking practices, producing Barolo wines that are celebrated for their depth, complexity, and longevity. Azelia's holdings include parcels in some of the most prestigious crus of Barolo, such as Bricco Fiasco and San Rocco, making their wines highly sought after by enthusiasts.
Vineyards and Terroir
Azelia's vineyards are situated in the Barolo region of Piedmont, Italy, covering approximately 16 hectares:
Soil Composition: The soils are composed of calcareous clay and marl, ideal for cultivating Nebbiolo grapes.
Grape Varieties: The estate primarily grows Nebbiolo, producing renowned Barolo wines, as well as Barbera and Dolcetto.
Wine Style and Production
- Key Characteristics: Azelia's wines showcase a distinctive balance between power and elegance, characterized by rich flavors of blackcurrant, plum, and spices complemented by aromatic notes of tobacco and cedar. These wines are noted for their firm tannins that confer excellent aging potential, ensuring that they develop in complexity over time.
- Winemaking Philosophy: At Azelia, the philosophy of winemaking is heavily tilted towards showcasing the unique characteristics of their terroir, harmoniously blending traditional practices with modern innovations. The estate prioritizes sustainable and organic farming techniques, underpinning their commitment to environmental responsibility and the production of high-quality grapes. Measures such as hand-harvesting and green harvesting are standard practices aimed at managing yields and enhancing grape quality.
- Influence on Style and Quality: The dedicated approach to vineyard management and the careful selection of production techniques significantly influence the style and quality of Azelia's wines. The utilization of cellaring ensures that the wines retain freshness and structural integrity, which is refined through the careful aging in French oak barrels to imbue additional complexity and depth. This meticulous attention to detail at each stage of production reflects in wines that are renowned for their depth, sophistication, and longevity.
Reputation
Azelia is a highly respected wine producer based in the Barolo region of Italy, known particularly for crafting exceptional Barolo wines. The winery has been in the hands of the Scavino family for multiple generations, since its establishment in 1920. Azelia has built a substantial reputation on the back of meticulous vineyard management and a commitment to expressing the unique character of their terroir.
One of the most distinctive aspects of Azelia is their approach to viticulture and winemaking. The family owns vines in some of the most prestigious crus in the area, such as San Rocco, Margheria, and Bricco Fiasco, each known for producing wines with distinct and unique characteristics. Azelia's winemaking philosophy combines traditional practices with some modern techniques, aiming to produce Barolo wines that are rich, nuanced, and capable of aging.
Azelia distinguishes itself through limited production, focusing on quality over quantity. Each vineyard plot is harvested and vinified separately, enhancing the individuality of each cru's terroir in their wines. This careful, precise management ensures that each bottle of Azelia is a reflection of its origin, showcasing the depth and complexity of Barolo.
Moreover, Azelia has received numerous accolades from wine critics and connoisseurs, endorsing its status among the top producers in Barolo. The consistency in quality across vintages and the ability to maintain traditional styles while embracing necessary innovations contribute significantly to the winery's prestige. Azelia remains a standout producer, embodying the excellence of Barolo with every vintage released.
Final Thoughts
Azelia stands out in the crowded world of wine production due to its deep-rooted heritage and exceptional dedication to terroir-driven Barolo wines. Established in 1920 in the Langhe region of Piedmont, Italy, this family-owned winery has consistently impressed critics and enthusiasts alike by skillfully blending traditional winemaking methods with modern techniques. Under the stewardship of the Scavino family, particularly Luigi Scavino and his son Lorenzo, Azelia has perfected the art of producing expressive, elegant, and finely balanced wines. Their notable achievements include receiving high praise and top ratings from prominent wine critics for their single-vineyard Barolos, such as the San Rocco and Margheria, which vividly express the unique characteristics of their respective terroirs. Azelia's commitment to maintaining low yields and an environmentally friendly approach emphasizes their dedication to quality and respect for nature, further positioning them as a distinguished producer within the prestigious Barolo landscape.