While Barolo and Barbaresco are justifiably the king and queen of Nebbiolo, the often-overlooked Northern Piemonte is where wandering off the popular roads pays off. The road signs, or in this case label, are generally helpful in finding these hidden wine gems. This is not the case with Vallelonga. The grapes for this wine are entirely sourced from the more prestigious Lessona region. However, despite the winery being just 33 feet outside of Lessona, the DOC laws prohibit the usage of the appellation since the wine is not produced within the region. Technically speaking, this wine is more or Less-ona. Labels aside, Fabio Zambolin crafts a truly refined Nebbiolo. Aromatically, bright red cherry and rose petal notes keep pace with rustic touches of anise, dried thyme, rosemary, and tobacco. The acidity displays its alpine energy that carries through its juicy/silky texture before gently giving way to Nebbiolo’s characteristic firm tannin structure. This wine effortlessly balances rusticity and finesse.