August is always a sleepy time in Fort Greene, as everyone spends the month soaking up the last rays of summer as much as they can. Some people take weekend trips past the city limits and others go on grand European excursions. So for this Producer Spotlight, we thought we’d highlight one of our favorite producers who makes wine fit for every adventure — Marina Marcarino of Punset. 

Located in the heart of Langhe in Piedmont, the Punset farm is on top of a hill that overlooks the historic capital. Punset derives its name from the Piedmontese dialect and has legendary origins: historically, the Counts of Castelborgo would use this name, which means “beautiful hill,” to describe their lands that emerged from the mists of autumn fog and could be admired from their castles. It continues to be a term that is reflected in the wines that Punset produces from these same lands.

Founded by Renzo Marcarino in 1964, Punset is currently led by Marina Marcarino, one of the only female winemakers in this region, who was destined for the vineyards since childhood. From learning how to work the earth at the hands of her grandmother to discovering organic farming techniques, it’s no surprise that Marina made the choice to eliminate all kinds of pesticides and synthetic products in her vineyards. Over the years, she has perfected agronomic methods that tend to minimize the use of copper and sulfur-based treatments, preferring biodynamic preparations and sharing the agronomic philosophy of Manasobu Fukuoka, also known as “the agriculture of doing nothing.”

If you’d like to learn even more about Punset, check out our interview with Marina on YouTube! And while you’re at it, give these stellar wines from Punset a try:

Langhe Arneis 2024

This white wine is made from 100% Arneis that were hand-picked and stored in a basket until they were soft-pressed. The wine undergoes spontaneous fermentation in stainless steel tanks, and is cold stabilized and bottled. A shimmering gold in the glass, the wine has delicate floral and fruity aromas that persist on the palate. Smooth and round, this white wine is excellent as an aperitif, or alongside fish, fresh cheese, and vegetarian dishes.

Barbera d’Alba 2023

A ruby red in the glass, this wine offers tantalizing aromas of intense red berries. Fresh and crunchy, juicy notes of bright red fruits, crushed rose petals, dried blood orange, and hints of cacao dust bursts across the palate. Enjoy alongside pasta dishes, pizza, dark meats, mushroom burgers, and braised greens.

Photos Courtesy of Punset