Elena Penna and Luca Currado, a year after resigning from Vietti in Barolo, are embarking on a new venture. According to Penna, "Cascina Penna-Currado is a return to our origins."
In early last year, the couple acquired the historic Cascina Lazzarito, located at the entrance to Serralunga d’Alba. Built in 1554 and originally named Santa Giulia, the farmhouse was formerly owned by the Marchesi Falletti and later passed on to the Opera Pia Barolo. They immediately began restoring it to meet UNESCO’s stringent guidelines.
The vineyard spans approximately 20 hectares, including a significant acquisition of 13 contiguous hectares in San Sebastiano. Positioned just outside the Barolo zone within Monforte d’Alba, the vineyards benefit from strategic placement, offering views towards the mountains and moderated by cool outflows. The property also includes forested areas and a natural lake, providing advantages during arid vintages.
"The first wines under the Cascina Penna-Currado label from the 2023 vintage will be released later this year," Penna revealed. The initial lineup features Langhe Nebbiolo and Dolcetto d’Alba from San Sebastiano, alongside a Timorasso from a 2.5-hectare leased plot in Colli Tortonesi.
Further releases include the 2023 Barbera d’Alba and Nebbiolo d’Alba in 2025, followed by the 2023 Barolos slated for 2027. Penna and Currado have secured long-term rental contracts for five hectares over 20 to 25 years, focusing on crafting distinctive Barolos that blend select plots from Verduno, Barolo, and Monforte d’Alba.
"We oversee every aspect of the vineyard from A to Z," Penna emphasized. With an expected production of 70,000 bottles, the estate reflects their desire for a manageable family endeavor.
Their children, Michele and Giulia, though currently in university, are preparing to join full-time after completing their studies and internships elsewhere. Penna noted the project's potential for growth, expressing continued ambition in their mid-fifties.
Source: Decanter