Nervi is the oldest winery in Gattinara, the small DOCG appellation in Alto Piemonte celebrated for Nebbiolo of unusual finesse and mineral character from volcanic soils. Founded in 1906, the estate was acquired in 2018 by Roberto Conterno of the legendary Cantina Giacomo Conterno in Barolo, making the 2018 vintage both the estate's first under Conterno's ownership and the inaugural release of his two single-vineyard Gattinara cuvees. Vigna Valferana is a west-facing vineyard at 300 to 350 metres altitude on volcanic soils, producing wines of etched precision and focused mineral intensity.

Vinous (Antonio Galloni) awarded 96 points to the 2018 Vigna Valferana, describing it as 'explosive right out of the glass, with supporting veins of tannin carrying a core of red fruit, cinnamon, rose petal, blood orange, mint and white pepper. The Valferana is complex and wonderfully deep from start to finish.' The Wine Advocate awarded 95 points, noting the volcanic soils' contribution to 'an etched and very focused expression of Nebbiolo, tightly chiselled and crisp, with blue flower, sour cherry, tobacco smoke, underbrush and candied orange peel offering a complete picture of the grape from Gattinara with extra tannic edge.'

Roberto Conterno's acquisition of Nervi and his decision to produce single-vineyard Gattinara in the challenging 2018 vintage demonstrated both confidence and skill: 2018 was considered more difficult in Barolo than in Alto Piemonte, where the volcanic and sandy soils of Gattinara showed remarkable resilience. The result, described by Galloni as 'a special wine' in a vintage that exceeded expectations for the appellation, confirms the quality potential of the Valferana site under the new management.

Cellar for a minimum of eight to ten years. Best from 2030 to 2055. Pair with braised beef, roasted lamb with herbs or aged Parmigiano Reggiano. Decant four to five hours before service; this wine demands patience.