Timorasso is an ancient Piedmontese grape variety that was on the verge of extinction in the 1980s. Pre-phylloxera used to be an important variety, but as a delicate, low-yielding variety to cultivate, it fell out of favor. However, it is now enjoying a resurgence in popularity. The vines are grown in the Colli Tortonesi DOC where the climate is warm and has a Mediterranean feel to it. The wine takes its name ‘Derthona’, from the traditional name in the local dialect for the town of Tortona. The grapes for this wine are grown in various vineyard sites located in and around Monleale. They are from
southeastern to southwestern facing vineyards maximising the vine’s exposure to the afternoon sun, encouraging the grapes to reach full maturity. The soil is made up of calcareous marl, in which the Timorasso vines thrive. The vines are hand harvested.