Located on the border of Langhe and Monferrato, lies beautiful Coazzolo, a small village in Asti, where you see the name “Emilio Vada” brandished everywhere. The signs lead you to a young and gifted winemaker who is leading the family-run winery into the future. Previously, the family had been farming their robust vineyard holdings and selling the grapes for four generations, but Emilio’s desire to push the limits on the wines of Asti sparked his decision to change things up. After taking the reins in 2012, ramping up in-house production, and continuing to invest into their estate and cellar, Emilio’s plans and goals have continued to build.

With a focus on celebrating the red varietals in Asti, Emilio grows Nebbiolo, Barbera, and Dolcetto,  implementing a straightforward and honest élevage, to craft quality red wines not seen in this area before. It’s a family effort, as Emilio, along with his mother, Milva, and father, Roberto, collectively emphasize sustainability in their vineyards. He jokes that when their plot of Langhe Nebbiolo was reclassified, it could have been classified as Barbaresco, but “unfortunately for us, all we have at this moment is Langhe Nebbiolo.” Some might frown, but not this energized and positive winemaker. 

The high ceiling for Emilio’s wines and the level of terroir that exists here in Coazzolo can be seen in the proximity to Neive, just over the hills. By employing sustainable philosophies in the vineyards, working hand in hand with family, and investing heavily into the cellar, Emilio has found a balanced, lifted, and fresh expression of his range of wines. It’s just the beginning of Emilio Vada’s story and this highly capable, passionate, and earnest winemaker has a very bright future ahead.