Discovering Hidden Treasures at the Figliej Estate in Settimo Vittone

Nestled in the picturesque region of Settimo Vittone, near Carema in Piedmont, lies the Figliej estate—a hidden gem for wine and nature enthusiasts. Recently, I had the delightful opportunity to explore this enchanting estate, where history, tradition, and nature come together harmoniously. 

The viticulture activity at Figliej has been carried on for seven generations of peasant winemakers. However, it was in 2016, with the meeting of Riccardo Prola and Bianca Seardo, that the estate began a new chapter. They embarked on a mission to recover historic vineyards, redevelop abandoned land, and recreate the overgrown terraces. Their efforts have not only preserved a rich heritage but also brought new life and innovation to the estate. Nowadays the company has 3 hectares of certified organic vineyards with ages ranging between fifty and one hundred years and an annual production of 5,000 bottles.

Spontaneous Herbs Hunting in the vineyard

My visit began with a leisurely walk through the estate's vineyards. Guided by Bianca, who possesses a remarkable knowledge of spontaneous herbs, I was introduced to the fascinating world of edible wild plants. Bianca shared insights into their traditional uses, and we sampled their unique flavours.

One herb that stood out to me was Acetosa (commonly known as sorrel). Its tangy, refreshing taste was so irresistible that I couldn't stop eating it. It's incredible to realise how many edible plants surround us daily, often unnoticed and underappreciated for their nutritional value.

This experience was a poignant reminder of a lost heritage that is gradually being revived. Foraging for wild herbs and plants was once a common practice, deeply rooted in local traditions and cuisines. Thankfully, this knowledge is making a comeback, and estates like Figliej are at the forefront of this revival.

The Carema Wine Region: A Heritage Preserved

The Carema wine region in Piedmont is renowned for its rugged terrain and heroic viticulture. The vineyards are often terraced on steep slopes, requiring meticulous care and dedication. This region is famous for its Nebbiolo-based wines, which thrive in the unique microclimate and soil composition of the area. The Figliej estate embodies the spirit of Carema, preserving the traditional methods and grape varieties that have been cultivated here for generations.

Tasting the Unique Wines of Figliej

Our tour culminated in the wine cellar, where we tasted the estate's exceptional wines. The Figliej estate produces seven distinct labels, each representing the unique terroir and heritage of the region. Their commitment to preserving heritage is evident in their vineyards, which host up to 25 different grape varieties, including Nebbiolo, Neretto Gentile, Barbera, Bonarda, Chatus, Cabernet, Croatina, Erbaluce, and Uva Rara. The vines, ranging from 50 to 100 years old, include some nearly lost varieties, adding to the wines' complexity and depth.

The winemaker, Riccardo, partners with Bianca to ensure that every bottle reflects their dedication to tradition and quality. In keeping with their sustainable practices, the vineyards are free from chemical treatments. In the cellar, they rely heavily on spontaneous fermentations with indigenous yeasts, using primarily stainless steel containers and wooden barrels to age the wines.

We tasted two blends, one crafted from 18 different grape varieties and another from 25. Each wine revealed layers of flavour and complexity, testament to the estate's meticulous craftsmanship. Additionally, we enjoyed a lovely macerated Erbaluce di Caluso and two styles of Nebbiolo—one aged traditionally in wood, offering rich, nuanced flavours, and another aged in steel, highlighting the grape's pure, unadulterated character.

The estate also produces three distinct grappas, each with a unique twist. One grappa is infused with citrus fruits from the vineyards, another with plums, showcasing their innovative approach to distillation.

Cheese Delight

Before leaving the estate, I visited the local Cooperativa, where I indulged in freshly made butter and an array of incredible cheeses. This culinary stop was the perfect end to a day filled with sensory delights. The cooperative supports local farmers and artisans, ensuring that traditional methods and high-quality products continue to thrive in the region.

Embracing Slow Living and Enogastronomic Heritage

The Figliej estate is more than just a vineyard; it's a sanctuary where slow living and enogastronomic heritage are cherished and preserved. It's a place where visitors can reconnect with nature, learn about sustainable practices, and appreciate the rich cultural history of the Carema region.

As I reflected on my visit, a quote from Adriano Olivetti which was displayed in the wine cellar resonated with me: 

"Often the term #utopia is the most convenient way to dismiss what you don’t have the desire, ability, or courage to do. A dream seems like a #dream until you start working on it. And then it can become something infinitely greater."

The Figliej estate embodies this spirit of turning dreams into reality, preserving the past while nurturing the future. Until next time, I look forward to more adventures and discoveries in the beautiful world of wine and nature.