Marne Brune Nebbiolo d'Alba Fontanafredda 1996
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We work with skilled and trustworthy suppliers, and we perform authenticity tests on the wines when they arrive at our warehouse. Here we review the seal, label, bottle number and much more, so that we ensure that the wine is genuine.
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We select the wines based on strict quality requirements.
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Delivery: We ship orders every weekday.
Delivery time and price:
- Denmark: 1-2 days (39-49 DKK)
- Sweden: 2-3 days (150 SEK)
- Finland: 2-3 days (15 EUR)
- Germany: 2-3 days (15 EUR)
- Netherlands: 2-4 days (15 EUR)
- Generally for EU countries: 2-5 days (15-25 EUR)
NOTE: There may be 1-2 days longer delivery time in remote areas.
Returns: You always have a 30-day right of return.
NOTE : All orders from November 15th to December 24th can be returned until January 31st.
Marne Brune Nebbiolo d'Alba Fontanafredda 1996
The 1996 Marne Brune is a red wine crafted entirely from the Nebbiolo grape under the Nebbiolo d'Alba Denominazione di Origine Controllata. Located in the prestigious Piedmont region of northwestern Italy, this appellation covers the hills surrounding the town of Alba, situated just outside the borders of the famous Barolo and Barbaresco zones. Piedmont, which translates to "at the foot of the mountains," is bordered by the Alps and is globally recognized for its dramatic, steep hills, particularly in the Langhe area. Here, the characteristic autumn morning fog blankets the vineyards, protecting the grapes and ensuring a long, steady ripening period.
The Nebbiolo d'Alba DOC, established in 1970, is dedicated exclusively to the Nebbiolo grape, a premier varietal deeply rooted in the region. The Marne Brune takes its name from the calcareous marl soils found on the left bank of the Tanaro river. These specific soil compositions, along with occasional sandy patches in the area, provide an ideal environment for the vines, allowing the terroir to heavily influence the final wine. Bottled at 13% alcohol by volume, this appellation is widely regarded as a classic expression of the grape and serves as a distinct counterpart to its neighboring zones.
This wine is produced by Fontanafredda, an estate with a history that reads like a royal drama. The winery was founded in 1858 by King Vittorio Emanuele II, Italy's first king after the unification, as a gift for his mistress and eventual wife, Rosa Vercellana, affectionately known as 'Bella Rosin'. Their son, Emanuele Alberto, Count of Mirafiore, further developed the estate and released its first Barolo label with the 1878 vintage. The estate's distinctive buildings, painted in brown and ochre stripes, still proudly display the colors of the Royal House of Savoy as a visible reminder of its royal origins.
Fontanafredda holds a unique position in the region, as the entire estate constitutes its own MGA and monopole-cru—a rare status in an area where most crus are divided among numerous owners. With 120 hectares of vineyards set within a larger property of over 300 hectares, it is the largest contiguous wine estate in Italy. After a period of ownership by the Monte dei Paschi di Siena bank starting in 1931, the estate was purchased in 2008 by Oscar Farinetti and Luca Baffigo. Under their modern stewardship, Fontanafredda has entered a new era with a strong commitment to sustainability, eventually becoming the largest certified organic winery in Piedmont.
The history of the wine
Below, you can delve into the history of this wine — its producer, grape, area, and region.
Piedmont
Piedmont (which literally means "at the foot of the mountain") is located in northwestern Italy, surrounded by the Alps. It is considered one of the world's absolute most prestigious wine regions. The area is known for small, passionate, family-run wineries and a huge focus on terroir (how the soil and microclimate affect the wine).
Classic characteristics of Piedmont:
The royal wines: This is where the world-famous, complex and expensive red wines Barolo and Barbaresco come from (both made from 100% Nebbiolo).
Everyday heroes: In addition to Nebbiolo, the region is famous for the grapes Barbera (juicy, acidic and incredibly popular) and Dolcetto (dark, soft and fruity).
The white and sweet: Piedmont also makes the crisp white wine Gavi and the famous, lightly sparkling dessert bubbles Moscato d'Asti.
The landscape: Dramatic, steep hills – especially in the Langhe sub-area. The hills are often shrouded in thick morning mist in autumn, which protects the grapes and allows for a long, perfect ripening.
Gastronomy: An absolute mecca for food lovers. The area is world famous for the exclusive white truffles from Alba, hazelnuts and rich, simmered dishes that scream with a glass of local red wine.
When this wine was made, the world looked very different. Here are some of the stories that unfolded while this bottle quietly aged in its cellar.
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100% authentic bottles
All bottles undergo a thorough authenticity test by our certified sommeliers before being offered for sale. We reject bottles we are unsure about.
Thorough quality check
Cork, capsule, fill level, label condition, and provenance are individually documented for each bottle. A physical certificate is included with every purchase.
60-day return policy
We are confident in the quality of our wines, and you as a buyer should be too. Return any unopened bottle within 60 days for a full refund — no questions asked.
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How it handles
you your wine
Storage
Store the bottle horizontally at 12–14°C and avoid direct sunlight, vibrations, and temperature fluctuations.
Opening
Allow the bottle to stand upright for 24–48 hours before opening to allow sediment to settle. Use a professional corkscrew and open carefully.
Enjoyment
Serve at 17–18°C and be patient – there is a great difference in how and how quickly wines open up when they are aerated.
GUIDE TO THE GOOD WINE EXPERIENCE
We will help you throughout the journey. Here you can read our guide on how to treat the wine. If you have any questions, you are always welcome to write or call us.
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