Cru (MGA) MARENCA

The Marenca MGA lies on the western side of Serralunga d'Alba, in a secluded bowl of vineyards between Margheria and Rivette. To the south this bowl is sheltered by the Vignarionda ridge. The vineyards lie between 275 and 355 metres in altitude, on the calcareous marl of the Lequio Formation so typical of this side of Serralunga. Renato Ratti already classified Marenca as a first-category cru on his famous Barolo map.

This sheltered position and the distinctive shape of the terrain seem to be the secret behind the power and depth of the Barolos from Marenca. Whereas neighbouring Margheria is above all refined and floral, Marenca shows more density and a richer texture. The result is full, layered wines with firm tannins and great ageing potential.

Marenca has two owners: Luigi Pira and Gaja. Gaja does not bottle its own Barolo Marenca, which makes Luigi Pira the only producer with a Barolo bearing this name on the label. His Barolo Marenca is therefore the benchmark for this cru.

For us, Marenca is also a familiar view. From our house, garden and terrace we look out over these vineyards, as well as over the neighbouring MGAs Margheria and Vigna Rionda.

Municipality	Serralunga d'Alba
Exposure	west/south
Size	7.46 ha
Altitude	275-355 metres
Soil	Lequio Formation
Wineries	Luigi Pira

View our Barolo Marenca here: Luigi Pira - Barolo Marenca DOCG 2019, 2020 or 2021.