We previously visited this winery in 2004.  This time one of the owner brothers, Orlando Pecchenino, hosted our visit.

Pecchenino annually produces 90K bottles; 40% exported to the US.  They are known for their premium Dolcettos.  Their other wines include Nebbiolo, a white blend, Barbera and most recently a Barolo. The 2005 San Luigi Dolcetto is the first DOCG wine as this region just obtained the “G” from a DOC. They make most of their wine in Monforte but the vineyards are in Dogliani.

Overall they were excited about the quality of the 2006 vintage and very excited about our group's response to the barrel sample of their first Barolo.

2006 Pecchenino Langhe  Vigna Maestro - Italy, Piedmont, Langhe, Langhe DOC (5/8/2007)
Tasted at the winery; Very light gold in color; a barrel sample with 40% chardonnay, 30% arneis and 30% sauvignon blanc. This had a lot of white flower aromas and flavors typical of arneis but was vinified slightly too sweet. It came across as heavy but I’m not sure if that was because it was still in barrel. Approx €10.

2005 Pecchenino Dolcetto di Dogliani San Luigi - Italy, Piedmont, Langhe, Dolcetto di Dogliani (5/8/2007) 89 pts.

2005 Pecchenino Dolcetto di Dogliani Siri D'Jermu - Italy, Piedmont, Langhe, Dolcetto di Dogliani (5/8/2007)
Tasted at the winery; Still very primary and slightly bitter on the finish. No oak used with this wine. Probably will be good; 89 points?

2006 Pecchenino Dolcetto di Dogliani Siri D'Jermu - Italy, Piedmont, Langhe, Dolcetto di Dogliani (5/8/2007)
Tasted at the winery; a barrel sample; Dark ruby in color; No oak used for this wine. It had some slightly bitter flavors due to high acidity. Interesting bramble flavors (almost like a US zin). Still very primary but the winemaker thought this wine has great potential and thought this wine could hold for 10-12 years after release. Good with more potential than the 2005. ~ €16 from the winery.

 2004 Pecchenino Barolo Le Coste - Italy, Piedmont, Langhe, Barolo (5/8/2007)
Tasted at the winery; A barrel sample that will be bottled 7/07. This is the first Barolo from Pecchenino. It was a clear garnet color with slightly green aromas on the nose. After it opened up in the glass for a few minutes a well-balanced, infant Barolo emerged. It should be a better than average Barolo and well-priced if around €30.