{"title":"barolo wines","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"giovanni-rosso-cerretta-barolo-docg-2013","title":"Giovanni Rosso Cerretta, Barolo DOCG 2013","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"One of my top ten Piedmont producers. I have a list. I unfold it, look at it, read it aloud a few times, and tuck it safely away.\"  Gary Walsh\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAzienda Agricola Giovanni Rosso is a family-owned estate located in the commune of Serralunga d'Alba, which marks the eastern border of the Barolo zone. The family has farmed vineyards in the area since the 1890s, however, they have only released wines under the 'Giovanni Rosso' label since 1995. Winemaker Davide Rosso, Giovanni's son, aims to make wine that accurately reflects the terroir, in this case from the many slopes they own in Serralunga d'Alba - in particular from the very special crus of Vigna Rionda, Cerretta and Serra. \u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Succulent devil this year, and very pure and juicy in fruit. Cherry and raspberry juice, a chalky almost earthy scent, almond and flowers, a touch of fennel. Medium bodied, very youthful and unformed, but the sweep and ripeness of tannin is something to behold, so fine, yet fleshy, with a cherry and blue fruited finish of super length. Delicate charm. Will be a thing of beauty in a decade or two.\"  Gary Walsh\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"The Giovanni Rosso Story\" href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/ILi_HaN81_U\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giovanni_Rosso_story_5874fbd2-9df7-4ced-8ced-8b495c45243d_480x480.png?v=1716644746\" alt=\"The Giovanni Rosso Story\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Giovanni Rosso Story\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eExpert reviews \u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\"Lovely to taste the Serra and Cerretta side by side. Similar, but quite different. Succulent devil this year, and very pure and juicy in fruit. Cherry and raspberry juice, a chalky almost earthy scent, almond and flowers, a touch of fennel. Medium bodied, very youthful and unformed, but the sweep and ripeness of tannin is something to behold, so fine, yet fleshy, with a cherry and blue fruited finish of super length. Delicate charm. Will be a thing of beauty in a decade or two. Drink: 2023-2033+.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front - 95+ points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\"Cherry, strawberry, rose and spice flavors are augmented by tobacco and iron notes in this elegant, detailed red. The aromatic and sweet fruit elements are deftly matched by refined, ripe tannins. Terrific length. Best from 2019 through 2035.\" \u003cstrong\u003e Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator – 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\"Serralunga d'Alba. Cask sample. Concentrated mid crimson. Much less fruit-driven and opulent than the Serralunga, and more poised. Succulent fruit tempered by firm yet ripe Serralunga tannins. Huge aromatic length and lots of bite and structure. Amazing purity of fruit and bags of it. Amazing balance and power. 17.5\/20 Drink 2020-2040.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eWalter Speller, jancisrobinson.com - 17.5\/20 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\"A full-bodied red with lots of iodine, dark berry and chocolate character. Chewy tannins that are polished and beautiful at the same time. A flavorful and rich finish. Excellent site. Drink or hold.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eJames Suckling, JamesSuckling.com - 93 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePiedmont Nebbiolo\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Nebbiolo_Grape.png?v=1716280198\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Piedmont wine region is located in the north-west corner of Italy. The name Piemonte means \"at the foot of the mountains\", the mountains in this case being the Alps. Piedmont is just Italy’s seventh largest wine region, but what it lacks in quantity it makes up for in quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePiedmont is famous for its Nebbiolo wines. Nebbiolo, the most exalted wine variety of Piedmont, gets its name from the Italian word for 'fog', \u003cem\u003enebbia\u003c\/em\u003e. During harvest, which generally takes place late in October, a deep, intense fog sets into the Langhe region where the Nebbiolo vineyards are located. The Nebbiolo heartland is the tiny Barolo production zone, a cluster of fog-prone hills around the village of the same name.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNebbiolo is early-budding, but also late-ripening. It needs good weather and lots of sunlight to achieve full ripeness, which is why the best vineyards for growing Nebbiolo are located on hillsides that are exposed to plenty of sunlight. Hence the suitability of the slopes of the Langhe hills near the town of Alba. Nebbiolo is only planted on the hills at an altitude above 250m, as fog hangs over lower vineyards for large parts of the day and there is no chance of making decent wine from this late-ripening variety if it is not exposed to maximum sunshine. The lower vineyards are generally planted with Barbera or Dolcetto.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSoil types also play a crucial role. Nebbiolo thrives on calcareous marl, a lime-rich mudstone that is found on the right bank of the Tanaro River, home to the famous appellations Barolo and Barbaresco. Nebbiolo grapes grown on other soil types tend to make wines that are not as aromatic and elegant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNebbiolo produces a full-bodied wine with high levels of acidity and tannin, particularly when it is young - at odds with its light colour. It also has great aging potential – particularly the Barbaresco and Barolo wines that garner the highest price tags.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two highest classifications of wines produced from Nebbiolo in Piedmont are the DOCG denomination \u003cem\u003eDenominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita\u003c\/em\u003e (Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin) and the DOC denomination \u003cem\u003eDenominazione d'Origine Controllata\u003c\/em\u003e (Denomination of Controlled Origin).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn total, there are seventeen DOCG and DOC wines made in Piedmont. The five applicable to Nebbiolo are Barolo DOCG, Barbaresco DOCG and Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC (which must be made from 100% Nebbiolo) and Roero DOCG and Langhe Nebbiolo DOC (which must be made from at least 85% Nebbiolo).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/LangheMap_0ced5874-ccd1-4704-8851-8597023cfb1c_600x600.jpg?v=1696556901\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDOCG and DOC Nebbiolo production zones in Piedmont\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo DOCG\u003c\/strong\u003e is perhaps the most famous Nebbiolo wine. Its name derives from the small town in the heart of the Barolo production zone, but it is produced in eleven communes around the larger hillside towns in the area. Barolo DOCG wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo and must age in oak for at least 18 months with a total age time of 38 months before release. Barolo Riserva DOCG must \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eage in oak for at least 18 months with a total age time of 62 months before \u003c\/span\u003ebeing released.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarbaresco DOCG\u003c\/strong\u003e is often described as more elegant than the more powerful Barolo, the 'queen' to Barolo’s 'king'. Barbaresco DOCG wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo. The production zone is tiny, a third of the size of Barolo, and has less stringent regulations. Barbaresco DOCG wines must age in oak for at least 9 months with a total age time of 26 months before release. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarbaresco Riserva DOCG must \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eage in oak for at least 9 months with a total age time of 50 months before \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ebeing released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNebbiolo d’Alba DOC\u003c\/strong\u003e is produced between Barolo and Barbaresco. Near the two zones the wines are full-bodied and age very well. Further away, they’re delicate and best drunk young. This wine can also come from grapes from Barola or Barbaresco not quite up to heavenly standards, such as grapes from new vineyards in the famous hills or from less exalted vineyards. Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo and \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emust age for at least 12 months before release. Nebbiolo d’Alba Superiore DOC wines must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 18 months before being released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRoero DOCG i\u003c\/strong\u003es a little known zone just north of Barolo within the Langhe. Roero DOCG wines must be at least 95% Nebbiolo and must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 20 months before release. Roero Riserva DOCG must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 32 months before being released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLanghe Nebbiolo DOC\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003efalls in (is a subset of) one of the largest wine zones in Piedmont, Langhe DOC. \u003c\/span\u003eThe Langhe DOC covers 54 communes of the Langhe and Roero hills. Varietally focused wines can include the name Langhe plus the grape. All told, there are 23 different forms of Langhe wines with Langhe Nebbiolo being just one. Langhe Nebbiolo DOC wines can come from anywhere in the Langhe i.e. from any of the four zones above (Barolo, Barbaresco, Nebbiolo d’Alba or Roero). Langhe Nebbiolo DOC must be at least 85% Nebbiolo and al\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003elow for up to 15% of other indigenous grape varieties, such as \u003c\/span\u003esuch as Barbera and Dolcetto. In practice most are made entirely from Nebbiolo.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: none;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont_Nebbiolo_Serralunga_d_Alba_1024x1024.png?v=1716562793\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSerralunga d'Alba in Piedmont, where the Nebbiolo grape is king\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Barolo Landscape\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696167899\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo, often referred to as the \"King of Wines\", is a powerful and full-bodied red wine made from Nebbiolo grapes. Barolo is special due to its unique combination of factors – its terroir, the Nebbiolo grape, and its winemaking traditions. The zone's spectacular terroir, a multitude of distinctive microclimates and soil compositions, is ideal for growing Nebbiolo. Furthermore, the centuries-old winemaking traditions add to the allure, resulting in a wine that is complex, full-bodied, and capable of aging gracefully for many years.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Barolo zone (the regulated production area) is a relatively small area in Piemont. It is 11km north to south and just over 8km at its widest point. Barolo comprises 11 different communes around the larger towns in the area - some of the more famous towns or villages are Barolo, Montforte d’Alba, La Morra and Serralunga d’Alba. These communes each have unique geography, soil, climate and altitude. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBarolo largely consists of three chains of hills separated by two north-south valleys, the Central Valley and Serralunga Valley. The communes are dotted up and down the twin valleys and hilly ranges that offer a huge variety of terroir.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 3D flyover of Barola below is worth watching to appreciate the compexity of the topography, the countless number of small hills and the changes that occur in the space of a few metres. However, for anyone wishing to gain a full appreciation of what Barolo looks like in the flesh, \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAlessandro Masnaghetti's\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" title=\"Alessandro Masnaghetti's Barolo MGA 360\" style=\"color: #808080;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBarolo MGA 360\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" title=\"Alessandro Masnaghetti's Barolo MGA 360\" style=\"color: #808080;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e°\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eprovides a superb digital replica of the landscape.\u003cbr\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003ca title=\"Barolo Vineyards in 3D flyover\" href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/HQmwjRhY-SA\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo3Dflyover_1facdbb5-6f80-4e50-8b28-4084fbf68997_240x240.png?v=1696134906\" alt=\"Barolo Vineyards in 3D flyover\" style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Click on image to play 3D flyover\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Communes and 'Cru' Vineyards of Barolo\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThere are 11 approved communes in the Barolo production zone. \u003c\/span\u003eOver 87% of Barolo is produced in the original five and largest communes; La Morra, Barolo, Castiglione Falletto, Serralunga d'Alba and Monforte d'Alba.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe remaining six communes are Novello, Verduno, Cherasco, Roddi, Grinzane Cavour and Diano d’Alba (which is planted \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emore to Dolcetto than Nebbiolo). Interestingly, the first two of these are home to two of the most in-demand vineyards in the entire region; Monvigliero in Verduno and Ravera in Novello.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLa Morra and Barolo are the two main communes in the western part of the zone, also known as the Central Valley. The soils are Tortonian - a fertile, compact, calcareous marl that produces graceful wines with more florals and fruit. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Serralunga Valley to the east has Serravalian (also referred to as Helvetian) soils which are heavy in sandstone and sand, producing structured bold wines with high tannins. Within this area you will find the famous communes of Castiglione Falleto, Serralunga d’Alba and Monforte d’Alba.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Communes of Barolo\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolloCommunes_600x600_c9ff96db-54e3-47dd-bcea-805b78acc453_600x600.jpg?v=1716186871\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommunes of Barolo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo drinkers had become familiar over the years with the most recognizable of the 11 commune names appearing on the labels; Castiglione Falletto and Monforte d'Alba, for example. However, i\u003c\/span\u003en the ‘90s the world rediscovered Barolo, whose wines bore little comparison to the rough wines of the past. Barolo began selling out, prices increased and so did the surface area of vineyards. With new producers came a rise in new labels and new ways to distinguish one from the other. They began personalising their labels with more than just the commune; they used the names of the vineyards, villages, and people. This desire to differentiate quickly got out of control, and as has been the case in many other wine regions, the consumer became confused.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe first priority was to create order, to delineate and define the varying wine-growing areas. To make it official, the Barolo Consorzio, in cooperation with the province of Cuneo and the various Barolo villages, undertook the challenging task of regulating the use of vineyard and zonal names on labels. By 2010, after several years of hard work, they came up with a list of geographical designations that are allowed to appear on the Barolo label. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThese geographical designations or MGA (\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emenzioni geografiche aggiuntive\u003c\/em\u003e or additional geographic designations) refer to specific delimited areas of production and can be seen as the equivalent of the French term cru. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn total, there are 181 geographical designations, of which 11 are communal (one for each commune; e.g. \u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo del Comune di Serralunga d’Alba, Barolo del Comune di La Morra,\u003c\/em\u003e etc.). Wines may be labeled with one of these MGA provided the fruit comes from the stated designation. \u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe MGAs – it’s important to emphasize this – do not imply superiority in a qualitative sense. A Barolo carrying the name of an MGA on the label is not necessarily better or more valuable than a Barolo with another name or even with no name at all, although for many producers Barolo wines with an MGA usually represent the most prestigious wines in their lists.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMost of the 170 MGA refer to a single vineyard such as Cannubi or Brunate, however as there are a number of exceptions, the MGA term cannot technically be defined as a vineyard. Bussia, for example, in the commune of Monforte d'Alba and the second largest MGA at 738 acres, is actually a large hill made up of several vineyards. \u003c\/span\u003eThe name of single-vineyard wines within\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e their eponymous MGA \u003c\/span\u003eare permitted on the label. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePoderi Aldo Conterno, one of Barolo’s greatest producers, makes wines from three separate vineyards situated within the Bussia MGA; Colonello, Cicala and Romirasco.\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ca title=\"Barolo MGA or Cru Official Map\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/uc?export=download\u0026amp;confirm=no_antivirus\u0026amp;id=1jgpl-l1jvpsy2Y1MQwwiSZmf95R51IaL\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/BaroloCrusMap_33a4cb8d-4b17-47ab-b217-9f75dfb93dfe_600x600.png?v=1696144900\" alt=\"Barolo MGA or Cru Map\" style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClick map to enlarge 🔍\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA number of the MGA extend across more than one Commune. The Cerequio MGA, for example, is located between the towns of La Morra and Barolo and extends across the boundary of the two communes. It is one of the most prestigious vineyards within the appellation and a truly stunning landscape – it is so revered that it has been nicknamed the \"Riviera of the Langhe.\" Grapes from both sides are of extremely high-quality and become great wines, but acquiring land with the southwestern exposure is considered la crème de la crème of the MGA. Therefore, it is no coincidence that the labels that have made Barolo history are all from here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStrange as it may seem, European laws prevent the use of two or more MGA names together on the label, thus effectively stopping a noble and well-documented tradition of Barolo obtained by blending various vineyards. However, if the MGAs are situated in the same commune, the label may specify \"Barolo del Comune di Barolo\" or \"Barolo del Comune di La Morra\" and so on. Although contradictory, the same law that prevents use of two or more MGAs on the label allows the producer to add up to 15% of Barolo obtained from a second MGA to a Barolo with an MGA stated on the label.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe proper term for a vineyard is \u003cem\u003evigna\u003c\/em\u003e, which can also appear on the label. Two well-known examples are Poderi Oddero Barolo Bussia Vigna Mondoca and Bruno Giacosa Vigna Le Rocche Barolo Falletto. Note that the term vigna does not have to be used as an identifier – Aldo Conterno does not label his separate Barolos with this descriptor.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA brief summary of the most important communes and crus in the Barolo production zone follows.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLa Morra\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"La Morra Commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-LaMorra_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696147933\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSituated at the northern end of the Central Valley, La Morra ranks first among all the communes as far as most acreage of Nebbiolo planted for production of Barolo as well as number of wineries (62); it is tied with Serralunga d’Alba for most MGA (39). Several of the highest vineyards in the zone are located here at elevations of more than 420m.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLa Morra is known for Barolo with rounder, more gentle tannins and more floral aromatics (especially from the Brunate MGA), as opposed to wines from Serralunga and Monforte d'Alba. The wines from the Rocche dell’Annunziata site are among the most complex, elegant and structured in all the commune.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRocche dell’Annunziata, La Serra, Arborina, Conca, Brunate and Cerequio (these last two are primarily situated in La Morra, with a smaller part of these sites also in the commune of Barolo).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRenato Ratti, Roberto Voerzio, Poderi Oddero, Elio Altare, Fratelli Revello, Marcarini, Mauro Molino, Mauro Veglio, Trediberri, Aurelio Settimo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Barolo Commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Barolo_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696148642\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSituated at the southern end of the Central Valley, t\u003c\/span\u003ehis commune lends its name to the wine produced in the Barolo Zone. The wines here are a mix of styles, with a typical Barolo from here being rich in tannins with a slight austerity. The most famous vineyard here is Cannubi, which contains both Tortonian and Serravalian soils, creating wines of great complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eCannubi, Sarmassa, Bricco delle Viole, Terlo, Liste, Castellero\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eBartolo Mascarello, Marchesi di Barolo, Scarzello, Borgogno, Damilano, Giuseppe Rinaldi, Francesco Rinaldi, Giacamo Brezza, Luciano Sandrone\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMonforte d'Alba\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Monforte d'Alba\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Monforted_Alba_Barolo_52bdc4ed-ac7b-4dfb-b7e3-124cbc5d2daa_1024x1024.png?v=1696165973\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSituated at the far southeastern reaches of the zone, Monforte d’Alba is home to long-aging, powerful examples of Barolo. There are only 11 MGA, but 53 wineries here; one reason for this is the large number of producers that make a Bussia Barolo. The wines here are generally quite ripe, and while there are numerous producers that take a modern approach in the cellar (e.g. Domenico Clerico), there are some such as Elio Grasso that specialize in more traditional examples of Barolo, with their Ginestra Casa Maté and Gavarini Chiniera Barolos.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eGinestra, Bussia, Mosconi, Castelletto, Le Coste di Monforte\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eElio Grasso, Domenico Clerico, Poderi Aldo Conterno, Giovanni Manzone, Josetta Saffirio, Giacomo Conterno, Giacomo Fenocchio, Amalia Cascina in Langa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSerralunga d’Alba \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Serralunga d’Alba commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Serralungad_Alba_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155302\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSituated north of Monforte d’Alba, Serralunga d’Alba marks the eastern border of the Barolo zone. If a classic syle of Barolo combines deep structure and longevity, then the Barolos of Serralunga are certainly among the most classic. These wines require time, but offers great rewards at their peak. Yet, you can find very approachable examples of Barolo from here; the offerings of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eBarolo Comune di Serralunga d’Alba\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eare often quite open upon release, displaying the rich fruit and tannins of Serralunga in a more refined manner. These are among the best values of the entire Barolo zone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs much as any commune, Serralunga is known for its remarkable assortment of vineyards, including Lazzarito, Vignarionda, Falletto of Bruno Giacosa, and Francia, the source of the celebrated Monfortino Barolo of Giacomo Conterno.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eFalletto, Francia, Lazzarito, Vignarionda, Margheria, Cerretta, Prapò, Parafada\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eFontanafredda, Ettore Germano, Paolo Manzone, Giovanni Rosso, Schiavenza, Palladino, Luigi Pira\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCastiglione Falletto\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-CastiglioneFalletto_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155789\" alt=\"Castiglione Falletto\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe commune of Castiglione Falletto is located to the west of Serralunga d’Alba, north of Monforte d’Alba and east of La Morra. The soils here are mixed with a good percentage of sand, resulting in wines that are often more fragrant and less tannic than those from Serralunga and Monforte. A typical Castiglione Falletto Barolo displays red cherry and starwberry fruit aromas and flavors along with distinct red spice notes. Rocche di Castiglione is arguably the best known site here, along with Villero (the source of Vietti\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eriserva\u003c\/em\u003e), Bricco Rocche of Ceretto, and Monprivato, this last made famous by Giuseppe Mascarello.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRocche di Castiglione, Bricco Rocche, Villero, Bricco Boschis, Parussi, Fiasco, Pernanno, Monprivato, Montanello\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eVietti, Paolo Scavino, Cavallotto, Monchiero Fratelli, Giovanni Sordo, Livia Fontanai\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVerduno\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Verduno_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696156532\" alt=\"Verduno Commune\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVerduno represents the far northwest reaches of the Barolo zone, and is known for wines that combine excellent ripeness with subtle spice, generally with mid-weight tannins. Clearly Verduno is most famous for the Monvigliero vineyard, situated just east of the town of Verduno, ranging from 220-310m above sea level. While most of this commune’s producers make a Monvigliero Barolo, recently many vintners throughout the Barolo zone have also added a Barolo from this vineyard - this includes Paolo Scavino, Giovanni Sordo and Terre del Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eMonvigliero, San Lorenzo di Verduno, Boscatto, Massara\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eBurlotto, Fratelli Alessandria, Bel Colle, Castello di Verduno\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNovello\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-NovelloBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696157519\" alt=\"Novello Commune\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe commune of Novello is located at the far southwestern corner of the Barolo zone and has one of the coolest climates of any commune, thanks to the winds from the Cottian Alps to the south. The wines of Novello were among the most unrelenting years ago, but because of climate change, a typical Barolo from Novello is now riper and much more elegant. Clearly the interest in this commune over the past decade can be traced to the work of Valter Fissore and his wife Nadia, at their Elvio Cogno estate, with wines from the Ravera vineyard. Recently several renowned producers such as Vietti and Paolo Scavino have also released a Ravera Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRavera, Sottocastello di Novello, Cerviano-Merli, Panerole, Corini-Palaretta\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eElvio Cogno, Ca’Viola, Le Strette, Marenco\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCerretta\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Cerretta Cru, Serralunga d'Alba\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giovanni_Rosso_Cerretta_Vineyard_1024x1024.png?v=1716203498\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Cerretta Cru in the Commune of Serralunga d'Alba\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"A wine that does not scream, but calmly shows its excellent qualities.\"  Decanter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: right;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Cerretta Cru of Serralunga d'Alba Commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiovanniRossoCerrettaCruMap_480x480_20772387-e357-4196-ba7e-65bf5f2c742f_480x480.jpg?v=1716342356\" style=\"margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 30px; float: right;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe Cerretta Cru is the strip of land that defines the northern profile of the commune of Serralunga d'Alba. With an enviable southeastern exposure, the Cerretta cru is one of the most distinctive Additional Geographical Mentions of Barolo DOCG. At 360 meters of altitude \u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand with a typically clay and limestone soil, imparted by the Sant'Agata Fossil Marl, it produces wines that have a lingering intensity on the palate and an ability to age for many decades.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe portion owned by the Rosso Family, forms a natural amphitheatre - a gentle basin that seems to embrace the forest below Località Cerretta – which generates a unique microclimate. Partially replanted in 1984 and then in 2000, this vineyard has been owned by the Giovanni Rosso winery since 1920. It comprises 3.5 hectares of vines that are pruned by hand using the Guyot method, thinned and defoliated according to the peculiarities of the vineyard. The last topping (the cutting of the final parts of the growing shoots, the apex and the last leaves) is held in mid-August, and the vines are then allowed to develop spontaneously until the grapes achieve phenolic maturation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe Giovanni Rosso Cerretta Barolo is a full-bodied but silky wine, as assertive and tannic as it is floral. Perhaps the most feminine of the family's Barolos.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe winery\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiovanniRosso_1024x1024.png?v=1696130920\" alt=\"Giovanni Rosso\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"While Giovanni Rosso isn’t one of the best known Barolo estates, it is one of the best.\"  Jamie Goode\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAzienda Agricola Giovanni Rosso is a family-owned estate located in the commune of Serralunga d'Alba, which marks the eastern border of the Barolo zone. The family has farmed vineyards in Serralunga d'Alba since the 1890s, however, the first real qualitative leap took place in the 1980s when Giovanni Rosso restructured most of the vineyards with modern planting layouts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBy focusing his energy on the vineyards, Giovanni was responsible for the meteoric rise in the fortunes of the estate. He raised the quality of the fruit to such a level that wines were released under the 'Giovanni Rosso' label for the first time in 1995. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiovanni's son, the very talented Davide Rosso, completed his degree in Oenology and departed for France, gaining experience working in Alsace, Champagne and Burgundy, most notably with\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Montserrat; color: #3d4459; background: white;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eDomaine Jean Grivot and Denis Mortet. In 2001, at the age of 27, he returned to his father’s side and took over as head of the winery. \u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003eDavide had one goal in mind, to make wine that accurately reflected the terroir - in this case from the many slopes they own in Serralunga d'Alba.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe vineyards are managed organically and although there is no certification, no pesticides or herbicides are used. Today, there are 12 hectares under vine, which include vineyards in the special crus of Vigna Rionda, Cerretta and Serra:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCerretta, which is on calcareous clay, has been owned by the family since 1920 and was partly replanted in 1984 and 2000.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eLa Serra, which is on limestone, was acquired by the family in 1946 and vines were planted in 1984, 1996 and 2003.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe jewel in the crown, Vigna Rionda, is on a mix of calcareous clay and sandstone. It was acquired in 2010 when the previous owner, Davide's uncle Tommaso Canale, passed away. Davide replanted three-quarters of the vineyard to nebbiolo but left the remaining quarter, with its magnificent old vine nebbiolo which was planted in 1946, intact. Davide makes two wines from the vineyard, both named in honour of his mother, Ester Canale. One is the Nebbiolo Langhe Rosso (from the young vines) and the other the Barolo Vigna Rionda Rosso (from the old vines).\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe Giovanni Rosso cantina (winery) is located just over two kilometers north of Serralunga d’Alba village, in the small hamlet of Baudana, which offers beautiful views of the many vineyards that surround it. The winery is a traditional family cascina, or farmhouse, and houses the majority of Giovanni Rosso’s wine production together with the fermentation, bottling and labeling facilities, as well as the offices.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Vineyards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eVignarionda\u003c\/span\u003e, Serralunga d'Alba \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e Area: 0.85 Hectares   \u003cbr\u003eVariety: Nebbiolo  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eElevation: 355m   \u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare    \u003cbr\u003eOwned by the Rosso family since 1934, it was replanted in 1945 and partly in 2011\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is a mix of calcareous clay or marl and sandstone  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCerretta, Serralunga d'Alba  \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eArea: 3.5 Hectare  \u003cbr\u003eVarieties: Nebbiolo and Barbera\u003cbr\u003eElevation: 360m   \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare    \u003cbr\u003eOwned by the Rosso family since 1920, it was partly replanted in 1984 and 2000\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is essentially made up of calcareous clay or marl\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLa Serra, Serralunga d'Alba  \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eArea: 1 Hectare \u003cbr\u003eVariety: Nebbiolo\u003cbr\u003eElevation: 378m      \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare   \u003cbr\u003eOwned by the Rosso family since 1946, vines planted in 1984, 1996 and 2003\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is noticeably white, being rich in active calcium (limestone)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeriame, Serralunga d'Alba \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003eArea: 1 Hectare  \u003cbr\u003eVariety: Nebbiolo   \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare    \u003cbr\u003eOwned by the Rosso family since 1946\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is noticeably white, being rich in active calcium (limestone)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBroglio, Serralunga d'Alba  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003eArea: ½ Hectare  \u003cbr\u003eVarieties: Nebbiolo and Dolcetto   \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare    \u003cbr\u003eThe soil consists of a particularly high percentage of sand      \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSorano, Serralunga d'Alba\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003eArea: 2 Hectares   \u003cbr\u003eVariety: Nebbiolo   \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare    \u003cbr\u003eThis was partly replanted in 2008 replacing vines planted in 1947\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is a deep calcareous clay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCosta Bella, Serralunga d'Alba\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003eArea: 2 Hectares   \u003cbr\u003eVarieties: Dolcetto d'Alba and Barbera d'Alba  \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare     \u003cbr\u003ePlanted in 1959\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is essentially made up of a calcareous clay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLirano, Serralunga d'Alba\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003eArea: About 1 Hectare   \u003cbr\u003eVariety: Sauvignon Blanc  \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare    \u003cbr\u003eOwned by the Rosso family since 1946, it was planted in 2000 with Sauvignon Blanc\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is rich in sand, shade supplied by the surrounding woods\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDamiano, Serralunga d'Alba\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003eArea: About 1 Hectare   \u003cbr\u003eVarieties: Dolcetto d'Alba and Barbera d'Alba   \u003cbr\u003ePlanted in 1994 and 2000, it's a very cool, breezy vineyard\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is rich in limestone and minerals   \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896843800817,"sku":"","price":265.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giovanni-Rosso-Barolo-Cerretta-2013_0c3490d5-766c-4341-ba1a-97c7d672e5cc.jpg?v=1716250573"},{"product_id":"giovanni-rosso-del-comune-di-serralunga-dalba-barolo-docg-2013","title":"Giovanni Rosso Del Comune di Serralunga d'Alba, Barolo DOCG 2013","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"One of my top ten Piedmont producers. I have a list. I unfold it, look at it, read it aloud a few times, and tuck it safely away.\"  Gary Walsh\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAzienda Agricola Giovanni Rosso is a family-owned estate located in the commune of Serralunga d'Alba, which marks the eastern border of the Barolo zone. The family has farmed vineyards in the area since the 1890s, however, they have only released wines under the 'Giovanni Rosso' label since 1995. Winemaker Davide Rosso, Giovanni's son, aims to make wine that accurately reflects the terroir, in this case from the many slopes they own in Serralunga d'Alba - in particular from the very special crus of Vigna Rionda, Cerretta and Serra. \u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\" data-mce-style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"It’s fair to say, I love me Nebbiolo. And I particularly love Serralunga. I seem to rate this wine the same year in, year out, which says to me that the attention to detail in the vineyard and winery makes the quality, and the vintage provides the character. Or something like that. Ripe raspberry and dark cherry, almond meal, clean earth, spices. Medium to full bodied, concentrated dark red fruits, firm earthy tannin, intensity, clean acidity, liquorice, and a slurry of shale-like tannin on a long finish. Classic Serralunga. It has a density and tightly packed nature that will require a little extra cellaring to let it unfurl, but a very convincing release from this wonderful producer.\"  Gary Walsh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe Giovanni Rosso Serralunga d'Alba is a village blend of nebbiolo from six different crus (vineyards) planted from 1984-1996: Broglio, Meriame and Damiano in central Serralunga and Baudana, Costa Bella and Sorano in the north. The crus have different sun exposure, altitude and soil characteristics, and are harvested and fermented separately before blending. \u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Segoe UI',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; color: #212b36; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\" data-mce-style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Segoe UI',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; color: #212b36; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003eThe grapes are harvested by hand, destemmed and softly crushed, and the juice is fermented in contact with the skins in concrete tanks for about 15 days prior to maturation in large 500L \u003cspan\u003eFontainebleau Forest oak\u003c\/span\u003e barrels for 18 to 36 months (depending on the vintage and the vineyard).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/75fDUuxWlt0\" title=\"Davide Rosso discusses his Giovanni Rosso Del Comune di Serralunga d'Alba\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: none;\" alt=\"Davide Rosso discusses his Giovanni Rosso Del Comune di Serralunga d'Alba\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giovanni_Rosso_Del_Comune_di_Serralunga_d_Alba_Barolo_DOCG_Video_600x600_94e1ea11-2cfe-4116-80f5-999fe30d80d8_600x600.jpg?v=1716441322\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" class=\"MsoNormal\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\" data-mce-style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e Davide Rosso discusses his Giovanni Rosso Del Comune di Serralunga d'Alba  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"\u003c\/span\u003eIt’s fair to say, I love me Nebbiolo. And I particularly love Serralunga. I seem to rate this wine the same year in, year out, which says to me that the attention to detail in the vineyard and winery makes the quality, and the vintage provides the character. Or something like that. Ripe raspberry and dark cherry, almond meal, clean earth, spices. Medium to full bodied, concentrated dark red fruits, firm earthy tannin, intensity, clean acidity, liquorice, and a slurry of shale-like tannin on a long finish. Classic Serralunga. It has a density and tightly packed nature that will require a little extra cellaring to let it unfurl, but a very convincing release from this wonderful producer. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDrink: 2021 - 2035+.\"  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front - 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Packed with sweet strawberry and cherry flavors, this red also deals leather, tobacco and tar notes from a well-structured deck. Tightens up considerably on the finish, a good sign for future development. Best from 2020 through 2038. Best from 2020 through 2038.\"  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator – 93 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"A village blend of Serralunga Nebbiolo from seven vineyards (Damiano, Brolio, Costa Bella, Sorano, Sori di Baudana, Cerretta Piane, Meriame). Cask sample. Impressively dark ruby. Deep nose of red fruit with a fine oatmeal note. Opulent palate with huge depth. Really ripe and long and with amazing concentration absorbing up the muscular tannins. Monolithic in its constitution with the acidity revealing itself only on the finish. Rich and multi-layered. \u003cspan\u003eDrink 2020-2040.\u003c\/span\u003e\"  \u003cstrong\u003eWalter Speller, www.jancisrobinson.com - 17\/20 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePiedmont Nebbiolo\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Nebbiolo_Grape.png?v=1716280198\" alt=\"\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Nebbiolo_Grape.png?v=1716280198\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Piedmont wine region is located in the north-west corner of Italy. The name Piemonte means \"at the foot of the mountains\", the mountains in this case being the Alps. Piedmont is just Italy’s seventh largest wine region, but what it lacks in quantity it makes up for in quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePiedmont is famous for its Nebbiolo wines. Nebbiolo, the most exalted wine variety of Piedmont, gets its name from the Italian word for 'fog', \u003cem\u003enebbia\u003c\/em\u003e. During harvest, which generally takes place late in October, a deep, intense fog sets into the Langhe region where the Nebbiolo vineyards are located. The Nebbiolo heartland is the tiny Barolo production zone, a cluster of fog-prone hills around the village of the same name.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNebbiolo is early-budding, but also late-ripening. It needs good weather and lots of sunlight to achieve full ripeness, which is why the best vineyards for growing Nebbiolo are located on hillsides that are exposed to plenty of sunlight. Hence the suitability of the slopes of the Langhe hills near the town of Alba. Nebbiolo is only planted on the hills at an altitude above 250m, as fog hangs over lower vineyards for large parts of the day and there is no chance of making decent wine from this late-ripening variety if it is not exposed to maximum sunshine. The lower vineyards are generally planted with Barbera or Dolcetto.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSoil types also play a crucial role. Nebbiolo thrives on calcareous marl, a lime-rich mudstone that is found on the right bank of the Tanaro River, home to the famous appellations Barolo and Barbaresco. Nebbiolo grapes grown on other soil types tend to make wines that are not as aromatic and elegant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNebbiolo produces a full-bodied wine with high levels of acidity and tannin, particularly when it is young - at odds with its light colour. It also has great aging potential – particularly the Barbaresco and Barolo wines that garner the highest price tags.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two highest classifications of wines produced from Nebbiolo in Piedmont are the DOCG denomination \u003cem\u003eDenominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita\u003c\/em\u003e (Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin) and the DOC denomination \u003cem\u003eDenominazione d'Origine Controllata\u003c\/em\u003e (Denomination of Controlled Origin).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn total, there are seventeen DOCG and DOC wines made in Piedmont. The five applicable to Nebbiolo are Barolo DOCG, Barbaresco DOCG and Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC (which must be made from 100% Nebbiolo) and Roero DOCG and Langhe Nebbiolo DOC (which must be made from at least 85% Nebbiolo).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/LangheMap_0ced5874-ccd1-4704-8851-8597023cfb1c_600x600.jpg?v=1696556901\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/LangheMap_0ced5874-ccd1-4704-8851-8597023cfb1c_600x600.jpg?v=1696556901\" data-mce-style=\"margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDOCG and DOC Nebbiolo production zones in Piedmont\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo DOCG\u003c\/strong\u003e is perhaps the most famous Nebbiolo wine. Its name derives from the small town in the heart of the Barolo production zone, but it is produced in eleven communes around the larger hillside towns in the area. Barolo DOCG wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo and must age in oak for at least 18 months with a total age time of 38 months before release. Barolo Riserva DOCG must \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eage in oak for at least 18 months with a total age time of 62 months before \u003c\/span\u003ebeing released.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarbaresco DOCG\u003c\/strong\u003e is often described as more elegant than the more powerful Barolo, the 'queen' to Barolo’s 'king'. Barbaresco DOCG wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo. The production zone is tiny, a third of the size of Barolo, and has less stringent regulations. Barbaresco DOCG wines must age in oak for at least 9 months with a total age time of 26 months before release. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarbaresco Riserva DOCG must \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eage in oak for at least 9 months with a total age time of 50 months before \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ebeing released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNebbiolo d’Alba DOC\u003c\/strong\u003e is produced between Barolo and Barbaresco. Near the two zones the wines are full-bodied and age very well. Further away, they’re delicate and best drunk young. This wine can also come from grapes from Barola or Barbaresco not quite up to heavenly standards, such as grapes from new vineyards in the famous hills or from less exalted vineyards. Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo and \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emust age for at least 12 months before release. Nebbiolo d’Alba Superiore DOC wines must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 18 months before being released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRoero DOCG i\u003c\/strong\u003es a little known zone just north of Barolo within the Langhe. Roero DOCG wines must be at least 95% Nebbiolo and must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 20 months before release. Roero Riserva DOCG must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 32 months before being released. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLanghe Nebbiolo DOC\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003efalls in (is a subset of) one of the largest wine zones in Piedmont, Langhe DOC. \u003c\/span\u003eThe Langhe DOC covers 54 communes of the Langhe and Roero hills. Varietally focused wines can include the name Langhe plus the grape. All told, there are 23 different forms of Langhe wines with Langhe Nebbiolo being just one. Langhe Nebbiolo DOC wines can come from anywhere in the Langhe i.e. from any of the four zones above (Barolo, Barbaresco, Nebbiolo d’Alba or Roero). Langhe Nebbiolo DOC must be at least 85% Nebbiolo and al\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003elow for up to 15% of other indigenous grape varieties, such as \u003c\/span\u003esuch as Barbera and Dolcetto. In practice most are made entirely from Nebbiolo.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont_Nebbiolo_Serralunga_d_Alba_1024x1024.png?v=1716562793\" alt=\"\" style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSerralunga d'Alba in Piedmont, where the Nebbiolo grape is king\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Barolo Landscape\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696167899\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696167899\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo, often referred to as the \"King of Wines\", is a powerful and full-bodied red wine made from Nebbiolo grapes. Barolo is special due to its unique combination of factors – its terroir, the Nebbiolo grape, and its winemaking traditions. The zone's spectacular terroir, a multitude of distinctive microclimates and soil compositions, is ideal for growing Nebbiolo. Furthermore, the centuries-old winemaking traditions add to the allure, resulting in a wine that is complex, full-bodied, and capable of aging gracefully for many years.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Barolo zone (the regulated production area) is a relatively small area in Piemont. It is 11km north to south and just over 8km at its widest point. Barolo comprises 11 different communes around the larger towns in the area - some of the more famous towns or villages are Barolo, Montforte d’Alba, La Morra and Serralunga d’Alba. These communes each have unique geography, soil, climate and altitude. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBarolo largely consists of three chains of hills separated by two north-south valleys, the Central Valley and Serralunga Valley. The communes are dotted up and down the twin valleys and hilly ranges that offer a huge variety of terroir.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 3D flyover of Barola below is worth watching to appreciate the compexity of the topography, the countless number of small hills and the changes that occur in the space of a few metres. However, for anyone wishing to gain a full appreciation of what Barolo looks like in the flesh, \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAlessandro Masnaghetti's\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" title=\"Alessandro Masnaghetti's Barolo MGA 360\" style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBarolo MGA 360\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" title=\"Alessandro Masnaghetti's Barolo MGA 360\" style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e°\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eprovides a superb digital replica of the landscape.\u003cbr\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003ca title=\"Barolo Vineyards in 3D flyover\" href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/HQmwjRhY-SA\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/HQmwjRhY-SA\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo3Dflyover_1facdbb5-6f80-4e50-8b28-4084fbf68997_240x240.png?v=1696134906\" alt=\"Barolo Vineyards in 3D flyover\" style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo3Dflyover_1facdbb5-6f80-4e50-8b28-4084fbf68997_240x240.png?v=1696134906\" data-mce-style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Click on image to play 3D flyover\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Communes and 'Cru' Vineyards of Barolo\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThere are 11 approved communes in the Barolo production zone. \u003c\/span\u003eOver 87% of Barolo is produced in the original five and largest communes; La Morra, Barolo, Castiglione Falletto, Serralunga d'Alba and Monforte d'Alba.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe remaining six communes are Novello, Verduno, Cherasco, Roddi, Grinzane Cavour and Diano d’Alba (which is planted \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emore to Dolcetto than Nebbiolo). Interestingly, the first two of these are home to two of the most in-demand vineyards in the entire region; Monvigliero in Verduno and Ravera in Novello.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLa Morra and Barolo are the two main communes in the western part of the zone, also known as the Central Valley. The soils are Tortonian - a fertile, compact, calcareous marl that produces graceful wines with more florals and fruit. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Serralunga Valley to the east has Serravalian (also referred to as Helvetian) soils which are heavy in sandstone and sand, producing structured bold wines with high tannins. Within this area you will find the famous communes of Castiglione Falleto, Serralunga d’Alba and Monforte d’Alba.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Communes of Barolo\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolloCommunes_600x600_c9ff96db-54e3-47dd-bcea-805b78acc453_600x600.jpg?v=1716186871\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolloCommunes_600x600_c9ff96db-54e3-47dd-bcea-805b78acc453_600x600.jpg?v=1716186871\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommunes of Barolo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo drinkers had become familiar over the years with the most recognizable of the 11 commune names appearing on the labels; Castiglione Falletto and Monforte d'Alba, for example. However, i\u003c\/span\u003en the ‘90s the world rediscovered Barolo, whose wines bore little comparison to the rough wines of the past. Barolo began selling out, prices increased and so did the surface area of vineyards. With new producers came a rise in new labels and new ways to distinguish one from the other. They began personalising their labels with more than just the commune; they used the names of the vineyards, villages, and people. This desire to differentiate quickly got out of control, and as has been the case in many other wine regions, the consumer became confused.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe first priority was to create order, to delineate and define the varying wine-growing areas. To make it official, the Barolo Consorzio, in cooperation with the province of Cuneo and the various Barolo villages, undertook the challenging task of regulating the use of vineyard and zonal names on labels. By 2010, after several years of hard work, they came up with a list of geographical designations that are allowed to appear on the Barolo label. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThese geographical designations or MGA (\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emenzioni geografiche aggiuntive\u003c\/em\u003e or additional geographic designations) refer to specific delimited areas of production and can be seen as the equivalent of the French term cru. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn total, there are 181 geographical designations, of which 11 are communal (one for each commune; e.g. \u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo del Comune di Serralunga d’Alba, Barolo del Comune di La Morra,\u003c\/em\u003e etc.). Wines may be labeled with one of these MGA provided the fruit comes from the stated designation. \u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe MGAs – it’s important to emphasize this – do not imply superiority in a qualitative sense. A Barolo carrying the name of an MGA on the label is not necessarily better or more valuable than a Barolo with another name or even with no name at all, although for many producers Barolo wines with an MGA usually represent the most prestigious wines in their lists.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMost of the 170 MGA refer to a single vineyard such as Cannubi or Brunate, however as there are a number of exceptions, the MGA term cannot technically be defined as a vineyard. Bussia, for example, in the commune of Monforte d'Alba and the second largest MGA at 738 acres, is actually a large hill made up of several vineyards. \u003c\/span\u003eThe name of single-vineyard wines within\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e their eponymous MGA \u003c\/span\u003eare permitted on the label. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePoderi Aldo Conterno, one of Barolo’s greatest producers, makes wines from three separate vineyards situated within the Bussia MGA; Colonello, Cicala and Romirasco.\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ca title=\"Barolo MGA or Cru Official Map\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/uc?export=download\u0026amp;confirm=no_antivirus\u0026amp;id=1jgpl-l1jvpsy2Y1MQwwiSZmf95R51IaL\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/uc?export=download\u0026amp;confirm=no_antivirus\u0026amp;id=1jgpl-l1jvpsy2Y1MQwwiSZmf95R51IaL\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/BaroloCrusMap_33a4cb8d-4b17-47ab-b217-9f75dfb93dfe_600x600.png?v=1696144900\" alt=\"Barolo MGA or Cru Map\" style=\"float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/BaroloCrusMap_33a4cb8d-4b17-47ab-b217-9f75dfb93dfe_600x600.png?v=1696144900\" data-mce-style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClick map to enlarge 🔍\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA number of the MGA extend across more than one Commune. The Cerequio MGA, for example, is located between the towns of La Morra and Barolo and extends across the boundary of the two communes. It is one of the most prestigious vineyards within the appellation and a truly stunning landscape – it is so revered that it has been nicknamed the \"Riviera of the Langhe.\" Grapes from both sides are of extremely high-quality and become great wines, but acquiring land with the southwestern exposure is considered la crème de la crème of the MGA. Therefore, it is no coincidence that the labels that have made Barolo history are all from here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStrange as it may seem, European laws prevent the use of two or more MGA names together on the label, thus effectively stopping a noble and well-documented tradition of Barolo obtained by blending various vineyards. However, if the MGAs are situated in the same commune, the label may specify \"Barolo del Comune di Barolo\" or \"Barolo del Comune di La Morra\" and so on. Although contradictory, the same law that prevents use of two or more MGAs on the label allows the producer to add up to 15% of Barolo obtained from a second MGA to a Barolo with an MGA stated on the label.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe proper term for a vineyard is \u003cem\u003evigna\u003c\/em\u003e, which can also appear on the label. Two well-known examples are Poderi Oddero Barolo Bussia Vigna Mondoca and Bruno Giacosa Vigna Le Rocche Barolo Falletto. Note that the term vigna does not have to be used as an identifier – Aldo Conterno does not label his separate Barolos with this descriptor.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA brief summary of the most important communes and crus in the Barolo production zone follows.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLa Morra\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"La Morra Commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-LaMorra_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696147933\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-LaMorra_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696147933\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSituated at the northern end of the Central Valley, La Morra ranks first among all the communes as far as most acreage of Nebbiolo planted for production of Barolo as well as number of wineries (62); it is tied with Serralunga d’Alba for most MGA (39). Several of the highest vineyards in the zone are located here at elevations of more than 420m.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLa Morra is known for Barolo with rounder, more gentle tannins and more floral aromatics (especially from the Brunate MGA), as opposed to wines from Serralunga and Monforte d'Alba. The wines from the Rocche dell’Annunziata site are among the most complex, elegant and structured in all the commune.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRocche dell’Annunziata, La Serra, Arborina, Conca, Brunate and Cerequio (these last two are primarily situated in La Morra, with a smaller part of these sites also in the commune of Barolo).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRenato Ratti, Roberto Voerzio, Poderi Oddero, Elio Altare, Fratelli Revello, Marcarini, Mauro Molino, Mauro Veglio, Trediberri, Aurelio Settimo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Barolo Commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Barolo_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696148642\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Barolo_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696148642\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSituated at the southern end of the Central Valley, t\u003c\/span\u003ehis commune lends its name to the wine produced in the Barolo Zone. The wines here are a mix of styles, with a typical Barolo from here being rich in tannins with a slight austerity. The most famous vineyard here is Cannubi, which contains both Tortonian and Serravalian soils, creating wines of great complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eCannubi, Sarmassa, Bricco delle Viole, Terlo, Liste, Castellero\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eBartolo Mascarello, Marchesi di Barolo, Scarzello, Borgogno, Damilano, Giuseppe Rinaldi, Francesco Rinaldi, Giacamo Brezza, Luciano Sandrone\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMonforte d'Alba\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Monforte d'Alba\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Monforted_Alba_Barolo_52bdc4ed-ac7b-4dfb-b7e3-124cbc5d2daa_1024x1024.png?v=1696165973\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Monforted_Alba_Barolo_52bdc4ed-ac7b-4dfb-b7e3-124cbc5d2daa_1024x1024.png?v=1696165973\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSituated at the far southeastern reaches of the zone, Monforte d’Alba is home to long-aging, powerful examples of Barolo. There are only 11 MGA, but 53 wineries here; one reason for this is the large number of producers that make a Bussia Barolo. The wines here are generally quite ripe, and while there are numerous producers that take a modern approach in the cellar (e.g. Domenico Clerico), there are some such as Elio Grasso that specialize in more traditional examples of Barolo, with their Ginestra Casa Maté and Gavarini Chiniera Barolos.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eGinestra, Bussia, Mosconi, Castelletto, Le Coste di Monforte\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eElio Grasso, Domenico Clerico, Poderi Aldo Conterno, Giovanni Manzone, Josetta Saffirio, Giacomo Conterno, Giacomo Fenocchio, Amalia Cascina in Langa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSerralunga d’Alba \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Serralunga d’Alba commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Serralungad_Alba_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155302\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Serralungad_Alba_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155302\"\u003eSituated north of Monforte d’Alba, Serralunga d’Alba marks the eastern border of the Barolo zone. If a classic syle of Barolo combines deep structure and longevity, then the Barolos of Serralunga are certainly among the most classic. These wines require time, but offers great rewards at their peak. Yet, you can find very approachable examples of Barolo from here; the offerings of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eBarolo Comune di Serralunga d’Alba\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eare often quite open upon release, displaying the rich fruit and tannins of Serralunga in a more refined manner. These are among the best values of the entire Barolo zone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs much as any commune, Serralunga is known for its remarkable assortment of vineyards, including Lazzarito, Vignarionda, Falletto of Bruno Giacosa, and Francia, the source of the celebrated Monfortino Barolo of Giacomo Conterno.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eFalletto, Francia, Lazzarito, Vignarionda, Margheria, Cerretta, Prapò, Parafada\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eFontanafredda, Ettore Germano, Paolo Manzone, Giovanni Rosso, Schiavenza, Palladino, Luigi Pira\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCastiglione Falletto\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-CastiglioneFalletto_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155789\" alt=\"Castiglione Falletto\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-CastiglioneFalletto_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155789\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe commune of Castiglione Falletto is located to the west of Serralunga d’Alba, north of Monforte d’Alba and east of La Morra. The soils here are mixed with a good percentage of sand, resulting in wines that are often more fragrant and less tannic than those from Serralunga and Monforte. A typical Castiglione Falletto Barolo displays red cherry and starwberry fruit aromas and flavors along with distinct red spice notes. Rocche di Castiglione is arguably the best known site here, along with Villero (the source of Vietti\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eriserva\u003c\/em\u003e), Bricco Rocche of Ceretto, and Monprivato, this last made famous by Giuseppe Mascarello.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRocche di Castiglione, Bricco Rocche, Villero, Bricco Boschis, Parussi, Fiasco, Pernanno, Monprivato, Montanello\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eVietti, Paolo Scavino, Cavallotto, Monchiero Fratelli, Giovanni Sordo, Livia Fontanai\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVerduno\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Verduno_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696156532\" alt=\"Verduno Commune\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Verduno_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696156532\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVerduno represents the far northwest reaches of the Barolo zone, and is known for wines that combine excellent ripeness with subtle spice, generally with mid-weight tannins. Clearly Verduno is most famous for the Monvigliero vineyard, situated just east of the town of Verduno, ranging from 220-310m above sea level. While most of this commune’s producers make a Monvigliero Barolo, recently many vintners throughout the Barolo zone have also added a Barolo from this vineyard - this includes Paolo Scavino, Giovanni Sordo and Terre del Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eMonvigliero, San Lorenzo di Verduno, Boscatto, Massara\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eBurlotto, Fratelli Alessandria, Bel Colle, Castello di Verduno\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNovello\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-NovelloBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696157519\" alt=\"Novello Commune\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-NovelloBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696157519\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe commune of Novello is located at the far southwestern corner of the Barolo zone and has one of the coolest climates of any commune, thanks to the winds from the Cottian Alps to the south. The wines of Novello were among the most unrelenting years ago, but because of climate change, a typical Barolo from Novello is now riper and much more elegant. Clearly the interest in this commune over the past decade can be traced to the work of Valter Fissore and his wife Nadia, at their Elvio Cogno estate, with wines from the Ravera vineyard. Recently several renowned producers such as Vietti and Paolo Scavino have also released a Ravera Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRavera, Sottocastello di Novello, Cerviano-Merli, Panerole, Corini-Palaretta\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eElvio Cogno, Ca’Viola, Le Strette, Marenco\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe winery\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiovanniRosso_1024x1024.png?v=1696130920\" alt=\"Giovanni Rosso\" data-mce-style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiovanniRosso_1024x1024.png?v=1696130920\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"While Giovanni Rosso isn’t one of the best known Barolo estates, it is one of the best.\"  Jamie Goode\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAzienda Agricola Giovanni Rosso is a family-owned estate located in the commune of Serralunga d'Alba, which marks the eastern border of the Barolo zone. The family has farmed vineyards in Serralunga d'Alba since the 1890s, however, the first real qualitative leap took place in the 1980s when Giovanni Rosso restructured most of the vineyards with modern planting layouts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBy focusing his energy on the vineyards, Giovanni was responsible for the meteoric rise in the fortunes of the estate. He raised the quality of the fruit to such a level that wines were released under the 'Giovanni Rosso' label for the first time in 1995. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiovanni's son, the very talented Davide Rosso, completed his degree in Oenology and departed for France, gaining experience working in Alsace, Champagne and Burgundy, most notably with\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Montserrat; color: #3d4459; background: white;\" data-mce-style=\"font-family: Montserrat; color: #3d4459; background: white;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eDomaine Jean Grivot and Denis Mortet. In 2001, at the age of 27, he returned to his father’s side and took over as head of the winery. \u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\" data-mce-style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003eDavide had one goal in mind, to make wine that accurately reflected the terroir - in this case from the many slopes they own in Serralunga d'Alba.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe vineyards are managed organically and although there is no certification, no pesticides or herbicides are used. Today, there are 12 hectares under vine, which include vineyards in the special crus of Vigna Rionda, Cerretta and Serra:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCerretta, which is on calcareous clay, has been owned by the family since 1920 and was partly replanted in 1984 and 2000.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;\" class=\"MsoNormal\" data-mce-style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;\"\u003eLa Serra, which is on limestone, was acquired by the family in 1946 and vines were planted in 1984, 1996 and 2003.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;\" class=\"MsoNormal\" data-mce-style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;\"\u003eThe jewel in the crown, Vigna Rionda, is on a mix of calcareous clay and sandstone. It was acquired in 2010 when the previous owner, Davide's uncle Tommaso Canale, passed away. Davide replanted three-quarters of the vineyard to nebbiolo but left the remaining quarter, with its magnificent old vine nebbiolo which was planted in 1946, intact. Davide makes two wines from the vineyard, both named in honour of his mother, Ester Canale. One is the Nebbiolo Langhe Rosso (from the young vines) and the other the Barolo Vigna Rionda Rosso (from the old vines).\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe Giovanni Rosso cantina (winery) is located just over two kilometers north of Serralunga d’Alba village, in the small hamlet of Baudana, which offers beautiful views of the many vineyards that surround it. The winery is a traditional family cascina, or farmhouse, and houses the majority of Giovanni Rosso’s wine production together with the fermentation, bottling and labeling facilities, as well as the offices.\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Segoe UI',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; color: #212b36; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\" data-mce-style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Segoe UI',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; color: #212b36; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/ILi_HaN81_U\" title=\"The Giovanni Rosso Story\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" alt=\"The Giovanni Rosso Story\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giovanni_Rosso_story_5874fbd2-9df7-4ced-8ced-8b495c45243d_480x480.png?v=1716644746\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Giovanni Rosso Story\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Vineyards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eVignarionda\u003c\/span\u003e, Serralunga d'Alba \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e Area: 0.85 Hectares   \u003cbr\u003eVariety: Nebbiolo  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eElevation: 355m   \u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare    \u003cbr\u003eOwned by the Rosso family since 1934, it was replanted in 1945 and partly in 2011\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is a mix of calcareous clay or marl and sandstone  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCerretta, Serralunga d'Alba  \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eArea: 3.5 Hectare  \u003cbr\u003eVarieties: Nebbiolo and Barbera\u003cbr\u003eElevation: 360m   \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare    \u003cbr\u003eOwned by the Rosso family since 1920, it was partly replanted in 1984 and 2000\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is essentially made up of calcareous clay or marl\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLa Serra, Serralunga d'Alba  \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eArea: 1 Hectare \u003cbr\u003eVariety: Nebbiolo\u003cbr\u003eElevation: 378m      \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare   \u003cbr\u003eOwned by the Rosso family since 1946, vines planted in 1984, 1996 and 2003\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is noticeably white, being rich in active calcium (limestone)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeriame, Serralunga d'Alba \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003eArea: 1 Hectare  \u003cbr\u003eVariety: Nebbiolo   \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare    \u003cbr\u003eOwned by the Rosso family since 1946\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is noticeably white, being rich in active calcium (limestone)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003eBroglio, Serralunga d'Alba  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003eArea: ½ Hectare  \u003cbr\u003eVarieties: Nebbiolo and Dolcetto   \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare    \u003cbr\u003eThe soil consists of a particularly high percentage of sand      \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003eSorano, Serralunga d'Alba\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003eArea: 2 Hectares   \u003cbr\u003eVariety: Nebbiolo   \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare    \u003cbr\u003eThis was partly replanted in 2008 replacing vines planted in 1947\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is a deep calcareous clay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003eCosta Bella, Serralunga d'Alba\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003eArea: 2 Hectares   \u003cbr\u003eVarieties: Dolcetto d'Alba and Barbera d'Alba  \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare     \u003cbr\u003ePlanted in 1959\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is essentially made up of a calcareous clay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003eLirano, Serralunga d'Alba\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003eArea: About 1 Hectare   \u003cbr\u003eVariety: Sauvignon Blanc  \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare    \u003cbr\u003eOwned by the Rosso family since 1946, it was planted in 2000 with Sauvignon Blanc\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is rich in sand, shade supplied by the surrounding woods\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003eDamiano, Serralunga d'Alba\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003eArea: About 1 Hectare   \u003cbr\u003eVarieties: Dolcetto d'Alba and Barbera d'Alba   \u003cbr\u003ePlanted in 1994 and 2000, it's a very cool, breezy vineyard\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is rich in limestone and minerals   \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896843833585,"sku":"","price":155.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giovanni-Rosso-Barolo-Serralunga-2013_9a43efc2-3ec5-4df3-ba01-bbaf22c93a8e.jpg?v=1716421546"},{"product_id":"giovanni-rosso-del-comune-di-serralunga-dalba-barolo-docg-2012","title":"Giovanni Rosso Del Comune di Serralunga d'Alba, Barolo DOCG 2012","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"One of my top ten Piedmont producers. I have a list. I unfold it, look at it, read it aloud a few times, and tuck it safely away.\"  Gary Walsh\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAzienda Agricola Giovanni Rosso is a family-owned estate located in the commune of Serralunga d'Alba, which marks the eastern border of the Barolo zone. The family has farmed vineyards in the area since the 1890s, however, they have only released wines under the 'Giovanni Rosso' label since 1995. Winemaker Davide Rosso, Giovanni's son, aims to make wine that accurately reflects the terroir, in this case from the many slopes they own in Serralunga d'Alba - in particular from the very special crus of Vigna Rionda, Cerretta and Serra. \u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\" data-mce-style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"I’d guess a few people won’t quite love this wine as much as I do, but for those who value precision, perfume and grace over grunt and heft, then walk this way. Raspberry, redcurrant, liquorice root with air, almost an Earl Grey tea fragrance, along with a sniff of new leather and mushroom. Medium bodied, almost juicy and succulent, with rosehip tea, redcurrant and raspberry flavours, pure acidity and gentle silty insistent tannin running long on the finish. What a delight!\"  Gary Walsh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe Giovanni Rosso Serralunga d'Alba is a village blend of nebbiolo from six different crus (vineyards) planted from 1984-1996: Broglio, Meriame and Damiano in central Serralunga and Baudana, Costa Bella and Sorano in the north. The crus have different sun exposure, altitude and soil characteristics, and are harvested and fermented separately before blending. \u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Segoe UI',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; color: #212b36; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\" data-mce-style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Segoe UI',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; color: #212b36; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003eThe grapes are harvested by hand, destemmed and softly crushed, and the juice is fermented in contact with the skins in concrete tanks for about 15 days prior to maturation in large 500L \u003cspan\u003eFontainebleau Forest oak\u003c\/span\u003e barrels for 18 to 36 months (depending on the vintage and the vineyard).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Davide Rosso discusses his Giovanni Rosso Del Comune di Serralunga d'Alba\" href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/75fDUuxWlt0\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giovanni_Rosso_Del_Comune_di_Serralunga_d_Alba_Barolo_DOCG_Video_600x600_94e1ea11-2cfe-4116-80f5-999fe30d80d8_600x600.jpg?v=1716441322\" alt=\"Davide Rosso discusses his Giovanni Rosso Del Comune di Serralunga d'Alba\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\" data-mce-style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e Davide Rosso discusses his Giovanni Rosso Del Comune di Serralunga d'Alba  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"\u003c\/span\u003eOne of my top ten Piedmont producers. I have a list. I unfold it, look at it, read it aloud a few times, and tuck it safely away. There’s nothing wrong with that, is there? I’d guess a few people won’t quite love this wine as much as I do, but for those who value precision, perfume and grace over grunt and heft, then walk this way. Raspberry, redcurrant, liquorice root with air, almost an Earl Grey tea fragrance, along with a sniff of new leather and mushroom. Medium bodied, almost juicy and succulent, with rosehip tea, redcurrant and raspberry flavours, pure acidity and gentle silty insistent tannin running long on the finish. What a delight! \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDrink: 2016 - 2024+.\"  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front - 95 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"An enticing mix of white pepper, strawberry, raspberry and floral aromas and flavors are the hallmarks of this racy red. Intense and focused, picking up a steely, minerally element on the long finish. Best from 2019 through 2025.\"  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator – 93 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePiedmont Nebbiolo\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Nebbiolo_Grape.png?v=1716280198\" alt=\"\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Nebbiolo_Grape.png?v=1716280198\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Piedmont wine region is located in the north-west corner of Italy. The name Piemonte means \"at the foot of the mountains\", the mountains in this case being the Alps. Piedmont is just Italy’s seventh largest wine region, but what it lacks in quantity it makes up for in quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePiedmont is famous for its Nebbiolo wines. Nebbiolo, the most exalted wine variety of Piedmont, gets its name from the Italian word for 'fog', \u003cem\u003enebbia\u003c\/em\u003e. During harvest, which generally takes place late in October, a deep, intense fog sets into the Langhe region where the Nebbiolo vineyards are located. The Nebbiolo heartland is the tiny Barolo production zone, a cluster of fog-prone hills around the village of the same name.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNebbiolo is early-budding, but also late-ripening. It needs good weather and lots of sunlight to achieve full ripeness, which is why the best vineyards for growing Nebbiolo are located on hillsides that are exposed to plenty of sunlight. Hence the suitability of the slopes of the Langhe hills near the town of Alba. Nebbiolo is only planted on the hills at an altitude above 250m, as fog hangs over lower vineyards for large parts of the day and there is no chance of making decent wine from this late-ripening variety if it is not exposed to maximum sunshine. The lower vineyards are generally planted with Barbera or Dolcetto.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSoil types also play a crucial role. Nebbiolo thrives on calcareous marl, a lime-rich mudstone that is found on the right bank of the Tanaro River, home to the famous appellations Barolo and Barbaresco. Nebbiolo grapes grown on other soil types tend to make wines that are not as aromatic and elegant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNebbiolo produces a full-bodied wine with high levels of acidity and tannin, particularly when it is young - at odds with its light colour. It also has great aging potential – particularly the Barbaresco and Barolo wines that garner the highest price tags.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two highest classifications of wines produced from Nebbiolo in Piedmont are the DOCG denomination \u003cem\u003eDenominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita\u003c\/em\u003e (Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin) and the DOC denomination \u003cem\u003eDenominazione d'Origine Controllata\u003c\/em\u003e (Denomination of Controlled Origin).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn total, there are seventeen DOCG and DOC wines made in Piedmont. The five applicable to Nebbiolo are Barolo DOCG, Barbaresco DOCG and Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC (which must be made from 100% Nebbiolo) and Roero DOCG and Langhe Nebbiolo DOC (which must be made from at least 85% Nebbiolo).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/LangheMap_0ced5874-ccd1-4704-8851-8597023cfb1c_600x600.jpg?v=1696556901\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/LangheMap_0ced5874-ccd1-4704-8851-8597023cfb1c_600x600.jpg?v=1696556901\" data-mce-style=\"margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDOCG and DOC Nebbiolo production zones in Piedmont\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo DOCG\u003c\/strong\u003e is perhaps the most famous Nebbiolo wine. Its name derives from the small town in the heart of the Barolo production zone, but it is produced in eleven communes around the larger hillside towns in the area. Barolo DOCG wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo and must age in oak for at least 18 months with a total age time of 38 months before release. Barolo Riserva DOCG must \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eage in oak for at least 18 months with a total age time of 62 months before \u003c\/span\u003ebeing released.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarbaresco DOCG\u003c\/strong\u003e is often described as more elegant than the more powerful Barolo, the 'queen' to Barolo’s 'king'. Barbaresco DOCG wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo. The production zone is tiny, a third of the size of Barolo, and has less stringent regulations. Barbaresco DOCG wines must age in oak for at least 9 months with a total age time of 26 months before release. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarbaresco Riserva DOCG must \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eage in oak for at least 9 months with a total age time of 50 months before \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ebeing released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNebbiolo d’Alba DOC\u003c\/strong\u003e is produced between Barolo and Barbaresco. Near the two zones the wines are full-bodied and age very well. Further away, they’re delicate and best drunk young. This wine can also come from grapes from Barola or Barbaresco not quite up to heavenly standards, such as grapes from new vineyards in the famous hills or from less exalted vineyards. Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo and \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emust age for at least 12 months before release. Nebbiolo d’Alba Superiore DOC wines must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 18 months before being released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRoero DOCG i\u003c\/strong\u003es a little known zone just north of Barolo within the Langhe. Roero DOCG wines must be at least 95% Nebbiolo and must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 20 months before release. Roero Riserva DOCG must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 32 months before being released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLanghe Nebbiolo DOC\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003efalls in (is a subset of) one of the largest wine zones in Piedmont, Langhe DOC. \u003c\/span\u003eThe Langhe DOC covers 54 communes of the Langhe and Roero hills. Varietally focused wines can include the name Langhe plus the grape. All told, there are 23 different forms of Langhe wines with Langhe Nebbiolo being just one. Langhe Nebbiolo DOC wines can come from anywhere in the Langhe i.e. from any of the four zones above (Barolo, Barbaresco, Nebbiolo d’Alba or Roero). Langhe Nebbiolo DOC must be at least 85% Nebbiolo and al\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003elow for up to 15% of other indigenous grape varieties, such as \u003c\/span\u003esuch as Barbera and Dolcetto. In practice most are made entirely from Nebbiolo.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont_Nebbiolo_Serralunga_d_Alba_1024x1024.png?v=1716562793\" alt=\"\" style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSerralunga d'Alba in Piedmont, where the Nebbiolo grape is king\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Barolo Landscape\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696167899\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696167899\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo, often referred to as the \"King of Wines\", is a powerful and full-bodied red wine made from Nebbiolo grapes. Barolo is special due to its unique combination of factors – its terroir, the Nebbiolo grape, and its winemaking traditions. The zone's spectacular terroir, a multitude of distinctive microclimates and soil compositions, is ideal for growing Nebbiolo. Furthermore, the centuries-old winemaking traditions add to the allure, resulting in a wine that is complex, full-bodied, and capable of aging gracefully for many years.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Barolo zone (the regulated production area) is a relatively small area in Piemont. It is 11km north to south and just over 8km at its widest point. Barolo comprises 11 different communes around the larger towns in the area - some of the more famous towns or villages are Barolo, Montforte d’Alba, La Morra and Serralunga d’Alba. These communes each have unique geography, soil, climate and altitude. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBarolo largely consists of three chains of hills separated by two north-south valleys, the Central Valley and Serralunga Valley. The communes are dotted up and down the twin valleys and hilly ranges that offer a huge variety of terroir.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 3D flyover of Barola below is worth watching to appreciate the compexity of the topography, the countless number of small hills and the changes that occur in the space of a few metres. However, for anyone wishing to gain a full appreciation of what Barolo looks like in the flesh, \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAlessandro Masnaghetti's\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" title=\"Alessandro Masnaghetti's Barolo MGA 360\" style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBarolo MGA 360\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" title=\"Alessandro Masnaghetti's Barolo MGA 360\" style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e°\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eprovides a superb digital replica of the landscape.\u003cbr\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003ca title=\"Barolo Vineyards in 3D flyover\" href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/HQmwjRhY-SA\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/HQmwjRhY-SA\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo3Dflyover_1facdbb5-6f80-4e50-8b28-4084fbf68997_240x240.png?v=1696134906\" alt=\"Barolo Vineyards in 3D flyover\" style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo3Dflyover_1facdbb5-6f80-4e50-8b28-4084fbf68997_240x240.png?v=1696134906\" data-mce-style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Click on image to play 3D flyover\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Communes and 'Cru' Vineyards of Barolo\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThere are 11 approved communes in the Barolo production zone. \u003c\/span\u003eOver 87% of Barolo is produced in the original five and largest communes; La Morra, Barolo, Castiglione Falletto, Serralunga d'Alba and Monforte d'Alba.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe remaining six communes are Novello, Verduno, Cherasco, Roddi, Grinzane Cavour and Diano d’Alba (which is planted \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emore to Dolcetto than Nebbiolo). Interestingly, the first two of these are home to two of the most in-demand vineyards in the entire region; Monvigliero in Verduno and Ravera in Novello.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLa Morra and Barolo are the two main communes in the western part of the zone, also known as the Central Valley. The soils are Tortonian - a fertile, compact, calcareous marl that produces graceful wines with more florals and fruit. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Serralunga Valley to the east has Serravalian (also referred to as Helvetian) soils which are heavy in sandstone and sand, producing structured bold wines with high tannins. Within this area you will find the famous communes of Castiglione Falleto, Serralunga d’Alba and Monforte d’Alba.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Communes of Barolo\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolloCommunes_600x600_c9ff96db-54e3-47dd-bcea-805b78acc453_600x600.jpg?v=1716186871\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolloCommunes_600x600_c9ff96db-54e3-47dd-bcea-805b78acc453_600x600.jpg?v=1716186871\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommunes of Barolo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo drinkers had become familiar over the years with the most recognizable of the 11 commune names appearing on the labels; Castiglione Falletto and Monforte d'Alba, for example. However, i\u003c\/span\u003en the ‘90s the world rediscovered Barolo, whose wines bore little comparison to the rough wines of the past. Barolo began selling out, prices increased and so did the surface area of vineyards. With new producers came a rise in new labels and new ways to distinguish one from the other. They began personalising their labels with more than just the commune; they used the names of the vineyards, villages, and people. This desire to differentiate quickly got out of control, and as has been the case in many other wine regions, the consumer became confused.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe first priority was to create order, to delineate and define the varying wine-growing areas. To make it official, the Barolo Consorzio, in cooperation with the province of Cuneo and the various Barolo villages, undertook the challenging task of regulating the use of vineyard and zonal names on labels. By 2010, after several years of hard work, they came up with a list of geographical designations that are allowed to appear on the Barolo label. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThese geographical designations or MGA (\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emenzioni geografiche aggiuntive\u003c\/em\u003e or additional geographic designations) refer to specific delimited areas of production and can be seen as the equivalent of the French term cru. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn total, there are 181 geographical designations, of which 11 are communal (one for each commune; e.g. \u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo del Comune di Serralunga d’Alba, Barolo del Comune di La Morra,\u003c\/em\u003e etc.). Wines may be labeled with one of these MGA provided the fruit comes from the stated designation. \u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe MGAs – it’s important to emphasize this – do not imply superiority in a qualitative sense. A Barolo carrying the name of an MGA on the label is not necessarily better or more valuable than a Barolo with another name or even with no name at all, although for many producers Barolo wines with an MGA usually represent the most prestigious wines in their lists.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMost of the 170 MGA refer to a single vineyard such as Cannubi or Brunate, however as there are a number of exceptions, the MGA term cannot technically be defined as a vineyard. Bussia, for example, in the commune of Monforte d'Alba and the second largest MGA at 738 acres, is actually a large hill made up of several vineyards. \u003c\/span\u003eThe name of single-vineyard wines within\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e their eponymous MGA \u003c\/span\u003eare permitted on the label. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePoderi Aldo Conterno, one of Barolo’s greatest producers, makes wines from three separate vineyards situated within the Bussia MGA; Colonello, Cicala and Romirasco.\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ca title=\"Barolo MGA or Cru Official Map\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/uc?export=download\u0026amp;confirm=no_antivirus\u0026amp;id=1jgpl-l1jvpsy2Y1MQwwiSZmf95R51IaL\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/uc?export=download\u0026amp;confirm=no_antivirus\u0026amp;id=1jgpl-l1jvpsy2Y1MQwwiSZmf95R51IaL\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/BaroloCrusMap_33a4cb8d-4b17-47ab-b217-9f75dfb93dfe_600x600.png?v=1696144900\" alt=\"Barolo MGA or Cru Map\" style=\"float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/BaroloCrusMap_33a4cb8d-4b17-47ab-b217-9f75dfb93dfe_600x600.png?v=1696144900\" data-mce-style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClick map to enlarge 🔍\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA number of the MGA extend across more than one Commune. The Cerequio MGA, for example, is located between the towns of La Morra and Barolo and extends across the boundary of the two communes. It is one of the most prestigious vineyards within the appellation and a truly stunning landscape – it is so revered that it has been nicknamed the \"Riviera of the Langhe.\" Grapes from both sides are of extremely high-quality and become great wines, but acquiring land with the southwestern exposure is considered la crème de la crème of the MGA. Therefore, it is no coincidence that the labels that have made Barolo history are all from here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStrange as it may seem, European laws prevent the use of two or more MGA names together on the label, thus effectively stopping a noble and well-documented tradition of Barolo obtained by blending various vineyards. However, if the MGAs are situated in the same commune, the label may specify \"Barolo del Comune di Barolo\" or \"Barolo del Comune di La Morra\" and so on. Although contradictory, the same law that prevents use of two or more MGAs on the label allows the producer to add up to 15% of Barolo obtained from a second MGA to a Barolo with an MGA stated on the label.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe proper term for a vineyard is \u003cem\u003evigna\u003c\/em\u003e, which can also appear on the label. Two well-known examples are Poderi Oddero Barolo Bussia Vigna Mondoca and Bruno Giacosa Vigna Le Rocche Barolo Falletto. Note that the term vigna does not have to be used as an identifier – Aldo Conterno does not label his separate Barolos with this descriptor.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA brief summary of the most important communes and crus in the Barolo production zone follows.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLa Morra\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"La Morra Commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-LaMorra_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696147933\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-LaMorra_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696147933\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSituated at the northern end of the Central Valley, La Morra ranks first among all the communes as far as most acreage of Nebbiolo planted for production of Barolo as well as number of wineries (62); it is tied with Serralunga d’Alba for most MGA (39). Several of the highest vineyards in the zone are located here at elevations of more than 420m.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLa Morra is known for Barolo with rounder, more gentle tannins and more floral aromatics (especially from the Brunate MGA), as opposed to wines from Serralunga and Monforte d'Alba. The wines from the Rocche dell’Annunziata site are among the most complex, elegant and structured in all the commune.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRocche dell’Annunziata, La Serra, Arborina, Conca, Brunate and Cerequio (these last two are primarily situated in La Morra, with a smaller part of these sites also in the commune of Barolo).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRenato Ratti, Roberto Voerzio, Poderi Oddero, Elio Altare, Fratelli Revello, Marcarini, Mauro Molino, Mauro Veglio, Trediberri, Aurelio Settimo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Barolo Commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Barolo_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696148642\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Barolo_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696148642\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSituated at the southern end of the Central Valley, t\u003c\/span\u003ehis commune lends its name to the wine produced in the Barolo Zone. The wines here are a mix of styles, with a typical Barolo from here being rich in tannins with a slight austerity. The most famous vineyard here is Cannubi, which contains both Tortonian and Serravalian soils, creating wines of great complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eCannubi, Sarmassa, Bricco delle Viole, Terlo, Liste, Castellero\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eBartolo Mascarello, Marchesi di Barolo, Scarzello, Borgogno, Damilano, Giuseppe Rinaldi, Francesco Rinaldi, Giacamo Brezza, Luciano Sandrone\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMonforte d'Alba\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Monforte d'Alba\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Monforted_Alba_Barolo_52bdc4ed-ac7b-4dfb-b7e3-124cbc5d2daa_1024x1024.png?v=1696165973\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Monforted_Alba_Barolo_52bdc4ed-ac7b-4dfb-b7e3-124cbc5d2daa_1024x1024.png?v=1696165973\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSituated at the far southeastern reaches of the zone, Monforte d’Alba is home to long-aging, powerful examples of Barolo. There are only 11 MGA, but 53 wineries here; one reason for this is the large number of producers that make a Bussia Barolo. The wines here are generally quite ripe, and while there are numerous producers that take a modern approach in the cellar (e.g. Domenico Clerico), there are some such as Elio Grasso that specialize in more traditional examples of Barolo, with their Ginestra Casa Maté and Gavarini Chiniera Barolos.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eGinestra, Bussia, Mosconi, Castelletto, Le Coste di Monforte\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eElio Grasso, Domenico Clerico, Poderi Aldo Conterno, Giovanni Manzone, Josetta Saffirio, Giacomo Conterno, Giacomo Fenocchio, Amalia Cascina in Langa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSerralunga d’Alba \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Serralunga d’Alba commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Serralungad_Alba_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155302\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Serralungad_Alba_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155302\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSituated north of Monforte d’Alba, Serralunga d’Alba marks the eastern border of the Barolo zone. If a classic syle of Barolo combines deep structure and longevity, then the Barolos of Serralunga are certainly among the most classic. These wines require time, but offers great rewards at their peak. Yet, you can find very approachable examples of Barolo from here; the offerings of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eBarolo Comune di Serralunga d’Alba\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eare often quite open upon release, displaying the rich fruit and tannins of Serralunga in a more refined manner. These are among the best values of the entire Barolo zone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs much as any commune, Serralunga is known for its remarkable assortment of vineyards, including Lazzarito, Vignarionda, Falletto of Bruno Giacosa, and Francia, the source of the celebrated Monfortino Barolo of Giacomo Conterno.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eFalletto, Francia, Lazzarito, Vignarionda, Margheria, Cerretta, Prapò, Parafada\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eFontanafredda, Ettore Germano, Paolo Manzone, Giovanni Rosso, Schiavenza, Palladino, Luigi Pira\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCastiglione Falletto\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-CastiglioneFalletto_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155789\" alt=\"Castiglione Falletto\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-CastiglioneFalletto_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155789\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe commune of Castiglione Falletto is located to the west of Serralunga d’Alba, north of Monforte d’Alba and east of La Morra. The soils here are mixed with a good percentage of sand, resulting in wines that are often more fragrant and less tannic than those from Serralunga and Monforte. A typical Castiglione Falletto Barolo displays red cherry and starwberry fruit aromas and flavors along with distinct red spice notes. Rocche di Castiglione is arguably the best known site here, along with Villero (the source of Vietti\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eriserva\u003c\/em\u003e), Bricco Rocche of Ceretto, and Monprivato, this last made famous by Giuseppe Mascarello.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRocche di Castiglione, Bricco Rocche, Villero, Bricco Boschis, Parussi, Fiasco, Pernanno, Monprivato, Montanello\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eVietti, Paolo Scavino, Cavallotto, Monchiero Fratelli, Giovanni Sordo, Livia Fontanai\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVerduno\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Verduno_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696156532\" alt=\"Verduno Commune\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Verduno_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696156532\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVerduno represents the far northwest reaches of the Barolo zone, and is known for wines that combine excellent ripeness with subtle spice, generally with mid-weight tannins. Clearly Verduno is most famous for the Monvigliero vineyard, situated just east of the town of Verduno, ranging from 220-310m above sea level. While most of this commune’s producers make a Monvigliero Barolo, recently many vintners throughout the Barolo zone have also added a Barolo from this vineyard - this includes Paolo Scavino, Giovanni Sordo and Terre del Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eMonvigliero, San Lorenzo di Verduno, Boscatto, Massara\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eBurlotto, Fratelli Alessandria, Bel Colle, Castello di Verduno\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNovello\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-NovelloBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696157519\" alt=\"Novello Commune\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-NovelloBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696157519\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe commune of Novello is located at the far southwestern corner of the Barolo zone and has one of the coolest climates of any commune, thanks to the winds from the Cottian Alps to the south. The wines of Novello were among the most unrelenting years ago, but because of climate change, a typical Barolo from Novello is now riper and much more elegant. Clearly the interest in this commune over the past decade can be traced to the work of Valter Fissore and his wife Nadia, at their Elvio Cogno estate, with wines from the Ravera vineyard. Recently several renowned producers such as Vietti and Paolo Scavino have also released a Ravera Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRavera, Sottocastello di Novello, Cerviano-Merli, Panerole, Corini-Palaretta\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eElvio Cogno, Ca’Viola, Le Strette, Marenco\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe winery\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiovanniRosso_1024x1024.png?v=1696130920\" alt=\"Giovanni Rosso\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/GiovanniRosso_1024x1024.png?v=1696130920\" data-mce-style=\"display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"While Giovanni Rosso isn’t one of the best known Barolo estates, it is one of the best.\"  Jamie Goode\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAzienda Agricola Giovanni Rosso is a family-owned estate located in the commune of Serralunga d'Alba, which marks the eastern border of the Barolo zone. The family has farmed vineyards in Serralunga d'Alba since the 1890s, however, the first real qualitative leap took place in the 1980s when Giovanni Rosso restructured most of the vineyards with modern planting layouts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBy focusing his energy on the vineyards, Giovanni was responsible for the meteoric rise in the fortunes of the estate. He raised the quality of the fruit to such a level that wines were released under the 'Giovanni Rosso' label for the first time in 1995. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGiovanni's son, the very talented Davide Rosso, completed his degree in Oenology and departed for France, gaining experience working in Alsace, Champagne and Burgundy, most notably with\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Montserrat; color: #3d4459; background: white;\" data-mce-style=\"font-family: Montserrat; color: #3d4459; background: white;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eDomaine Jean Grivot and Denis Mortet. In 2001, at the age of 27, he returned to his father’s side and took over as head of the winery. \u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\" data-mce-style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003eDavide had one goal in mind, to make wine that accurately reflected the terroir - in this case from the many slopes they own in Serralunga d'Alba.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe vineyards are managed organically and although there is no certification, no pesticides or herbicides are used. Today, there are 12 hectares under vine, which include vineyards in the special crus of Vigna Rionda, Cerretta and Serra:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCerretta, which is on calcareous clay, has been owned by the family since 1920 and was partly replanted in 1984 and 2000.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;\" class=\"MsoNormal\" data-mce-style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;\"\u003eLa Serra, which is on limestone, was acquired by the family in 1946 and vines were planted in 1984, 1996 and 2003.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;\" class=\"MsoNormal\" data-mce-style=\"mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;\"\u003eThe jewel in the crown, Vigna Rionda, is on a mix of calcareous clay and sandstone. It was acquired in 2010 when the previous owner, Davide's uncle Tommaso Canale, passed away. Davide replanted three-quarters of the vineyard to nebbiolo but left the remaining quarter, with its magnificent old vine nebbiolo which was planted in 1946, intact. Davide makes two wines from the vineyard, both named in honour of his mother, Ester Canale. One is the Nebbiolo Langhe Rosso (from the young vines) and the other the Barolo Vigna Rionda Rosso (from the old vines).\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe Giovanni Rosso cantina (winery) is located just over two kilometers north of Serralunga d’Alba village, in the small hamlet of Baudana, which offers beautiful views of the many vineyards that surround it. The winery is a traditional family cascina, or farmhouse, and houses the majority of Giovanni Rosso’s wine production together with the fermentation, bottling and labeling facilities, as well as the offices.\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Segoe UI',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; color: #212b36; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\" data-mce-style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Segoe UI',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; color: #212b36; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/ILi_HaN81_U\" title=\"The Giovanni Rosso Story\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" alt=\"The Giovanni Rosso Story\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giovanni_Rosso_story_5874fbd2-9df7-4ced-8ced-8b495c45243d_480x480.png?v=1716644746\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Giovanni Rosso Story\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Vineyards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eVignarionda\u003c\/span\u003e, Serralunga d'Alba \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003e Area: 0.85 Hectares   \u003cbr\u003eVariety: Nebbiolo  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eElevation: 355m   \u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare    \u003cbr\u003eOwned by the Rosso family since 1934, it was replanted in 1945 and partly in 2011\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is a mix of calcareous clay or marl and sandstone  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCerretta, Serralunga d'Alba  \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eArea: 3.5 Hectare  \u003cbr\u003eVarieties: Nebbiolo and Barbera\u003cbr\u003eElevation: 360m   \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare    \u003cbr\u003eOwned by the Rosso family since 1920, it was partly replanted in 1984 and 2000\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is essentially made up of calcareous clay or marl\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLa Serra, Serralunga d'Alba  \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eArea: 1 Hectare \u003cbr\u003eVariety: Nebbiolo\u003cbr\u003eElevation: 378m      \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare   \u003cbr\u003eOwned by the Rosso family since 1946, vines planted in 1984, 1996 and 2003\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is noticeably white, being rich in active calcium (limestone)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeriame, Serralunga d'Alba \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003eArea: 1 Hectare  \u003cbr\u003eVariety: Nebbiolo   \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare    \u003cbr\u003eOwned by the Rosso family since 1946\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is noticeably white, being rich in active calcium (limestone)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBroglio, Serralunga d'Alba  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003eArea: ½ Hectare  \u003cbr\u003eVarieties: Nebbiolo and Dolcetto   \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare    \u003cbr\u003eThe soil consists of a particularly high percentage of sand      \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSorano, Serralunga d'Alba\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003eArea: 2 Hectares   \u003cbr\u003eVariety: Nebbiolo   \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare    \u003cbr\u003eThis was partly replanted in 2008 replacing vines planted in 1947\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is a deep calcareous clay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCosta Bella, Serralunga d'Alba\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003eArea: 2 Hectares   \u003cbr\u003eVarieties: Dolcetto d'Alba and Barbera d'Alba  \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare     \u003cbr\u003ePlanted in 1959\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is essentially made up of a calcareous clay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLirano, Serralunga d'Alba\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003eArea: About 1 Hectare   \u003cbr\u003eVariety: Sauvignon Blanc  \u003cbr\u003ePlanting Density: 5,000 \/ hectare    \u003cbr\u003eOwned by the Rosso family since 1946, it was planted in 2000 with Sauvignon Blanc\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is rich in sand, shade supplied by the surrounding woods\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDamiano, Serralunga d'Alba\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"padding-left: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding-left: 30px;\"\u003eArea: About 1 Hectare   \u003cbr\u003eVarieties: Dolcetto d'Alba and Barbera d'Alba   \u003cbr\u003ePlanted in 1994 and 2000, it's a very cool, breezy vineyard\u003cbr\u003eThe soil is rich in limestone and minerals   \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896843866353,"sku":"","price":155.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giovanni-Rosso-Barolo-Serralunga-2012_8bd142f9-dfe9-4606-9113-da605b98943e.jpg?v=1716250720"},{"product_id":"monchiero-rocche-di-castiglione-barolo-docg-2013","title":"Monchiero Rocche di Castiglione, Barolo DOCG 2013","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe fabled \"Rocche\", one of the smallest and most renowned crus in Barolo, gives us a window into the elegant, feminine side of Barolo.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAzienda Agricola Monchiero is one of the best kept secrets of Piedmont. Nestled in the picturesque commune of Castiglione Falletto in the Barolo region, it is surrounded by some of the greatest terroir you will find in all of Piedmont. There's a belt of vineyards in Castiglione Falletto that some refer to as the Chambolle-Musigny of Piedmont and Monchiero sits right within this patch. The wines from this exceptional producer are complex and elegant, with incredible balance and purity of fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBeautiful aromatic herb and floral perfume here, red fruits, crushed rocks, plenty of spice, liquorice root and orange peel. Medium bodied, but dense and powerful, with packed down stony tannin, fresh acidity, layers of spice and amaro herbs, cherry and red fruits, and this soaring precise finish dusted with smashed rock tannin. Great wine. Transparent. Will age for decades.\"  Gary Walsh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"The 2013 Monchiero Rocche Di Castiglione Falletto Barolo is produced from 25+ year old nebbiolo vines at an altitude of 330 metres above sea level. \u003c\/span\u003eThere's some blood orange and jaffa, laced with exotic spice aromatics. M\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eouthwatering red and black cherry fruits, \u003c\/span\u003ewhite truffle, marzipan and black tea make up the dense, powerhouse, palate which has a great mineral core drive at heart.  It's power and elegance combined.  A great wine.\"  \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVittorio Monchiero\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Vittorio Monchiero discusses his Rocche di Castiglione Barolo\" href=\"https:\/\/vimeo.com\/364337432\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/vimeo.com\/364337432\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Monchiero_Rocche_di_Castiglione_Video_600x600.png?v=1716517704\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Monchiero_Rocche_di_Castiglione_Video_600x600.png?v=1716517704\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eVittorio Monchiero discusses his Rocche di Castiglione Barolo\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"\u003c\/span\u003eFascinating to taste this alongside the 2012 vintage. I poured two glasses, without looking at the bottles, just to see if I could work out which vintage was which: it was pretty easy. The 2012 shows a little sweet herb, but mainly offers the easy succulence and softer structure of the vintage – the finer bones perhaps – whereas the 2013 is firmly structured, focused, and very long.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBeautiful aromatic herb and floral perfume here, red fruits, crushed rocks, plenty of spice, liquorice root and orange peel. Medium bodied, but dense and powerful, with packed down stony tannin, fresh acidity, layers of spice and amaro herbs, cherry and red fruits, and this soaring precise finish dusted with smashed rock tannin. Great wine. Transparent. Will age for decades\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Drink: 2023-2038+.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front – 96 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePiedmont Nebbiolo\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Nebbiolo_Grape.png?v=1716280198\" alt=\"\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Nebbiolo_Grape.png?v=1716280198\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Piedmont wine region is located in the north-west corner of Italy. The name Piemonte means \"at the foot of the mountains\", the mountains in this case being the Alps. Piedmont is just Italy’s seventh largest wine region, but what it lacks in quantity it makes up for in quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePiedmont is famous for its Nebbiolo wines. Nebbiolo, the most exalted wine variety of Piedmont, gets its name from the Italian word for 'fog', \u003cem\u003enebbia\u003c\/em\u003e. During harvest, which generally takes place late in October, a deep, intense fog sets into the Langhe region where the Nebbiolo vineyards are located. The Nebbiolo heartland is the tiny Barolo production zone, a cluster of fog-prone hills around the village of the same name.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNebbiolo is early-budding, but also late-ripening. It needs good weather and lots of sunlight to achieve full ripeness, which is why the best vineyards for growing Nebbiolo are located on hillsides that are exposed to plenty of sunlight. Hence the suitability of the slopes of the Langhe hills near the town of Alba. Nebbiolo is only planted on the hills at an altitude above 250m, as fog hangs over lower vineyards for large parts of the day and there is no chance of making decent wine from this late-ripening variety if it is not exposed to maximum sunshine. The lower vineyards are generally planted with Barbera or Dolcetto.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSoil types also play a crucial role. Nebbiolo thrives on calcareous marl, a lime-rich mudstone that is found on the right bank of the Tanaro River, home to the famous appellations Barolo and Barbaresco. Nebbiolo grapes grown on other soil types tend to make wines that are not as aromatic and elegant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNebbiolo produces a full-bodied wine with high levels of acidity and tannin, particularly when it is young - at odds with its light colour. It also has great aging potential – particularly the Barbaresco and Barolo wines that garner the highest price tags.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two highest classifications of wines produced from Nebbiolo in Piedmont are the DOCG denomination \u003cem\u003eDenominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita\u003c\/em\u003e (Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin) and the DOC denomination \u003cem\u003eDenominazione d'Origine Controllata\u003c\/em\u003e (Denomination of Controlled Origin).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn total, there are seventeen DOCG and DOC wines made in Piedmont. The five applicable to Nebbiolo are Barolo DOCG, Barbaresco DOCG and Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC (which must be made from 100% Nebbiolo) and Roero DOCG and Langhe Nebbiolo DOC (which must be made from at least 85% Nebbiolo).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/LangheMap_0ced5874-ccd1-4704-8851-8597023cfb1c_600x600.jpg?v=1696556901\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/LangheMap_0ced5874-ccd1-4704-8851-8597023cfb1c_600x600.jpg?v=1696556901\" data-mce-style=\"margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDOCG and DOC Nebbiolo production zones in Piedmont\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo DOCG\u003c\/strong\u003e is perhaps the most famous Nebbiolo wine. Its name derives from the small town in the heart of the Barolo production zone, but it is produced in eleven communes around the larger hillside towns in the area. Barolo DOCG wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo and must age in oak for at least 18 months with a total age time of 38 months before release. Barolo Riserva DOCG must \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eage in oak for at least 18 months with a total age time of 62 months before \u003c\/span\u003ebeing released.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarbaresco DOCG\u003c\/strong\u003e is often described as more elegant than the more powerful Barolo, the 'queen' to Barolo’s 'king'. Barbaresco DOCG wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo. The production zone is tiny, a third of the size of Barolo, and has less stringent regulations. Barbaresco DOCG wines must age in oak for at least 9 months with a total age time of 26 months before release. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarbaresco Riserva DOCG must \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eage in oak for at least 9 months with a total age time of 50 months before \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ebeing released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNebbiolo d’Alba DOC\u003c\/strong\u003e is produced between Barolo and Barbaresco. Near the two zones the wines are full-bodied and age very well. Further away, they’re delicate and best drunk young. This wine can also come from grapes from Barola or Barbaresco not quite up to heavenly standards, such as grapes from new vineyards in the famous hills or from less exalted vineyards. Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo and \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emust age for at least 12 months before release. Nebbiolo d’Alba Superiore DOC wines must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 18 months before being released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRoero DOCG i\u003c\/strong\u003es a little known zone just north of Barolo within the Langhe. Roero DOCG wines must be at least 95% Nebbiolo and must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 20 months before release. Roero Riserva DOCG must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 32 months before being released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLanghe Nebbiolo DOC\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003efalls in (is a subset of) one of the largest wine zones in Piedmont, Langhe DOC. \u003c\/span\u003eThe Langhe DOC covers 54 communes of the Langhe and Roero hills. Varietally focused wines can include the name Langhe plus the grape. All told, there are 23 different forms of Langhe wines with Langhe Nebbiolo being just one. Langhe Nebbiolo DOC wines can come from anywhere in the Langhe i.e. from any of the four zones above (Barolo, Barbaresco, Nebbiolo d’Alba or Roero). Langhe Nebbiolo DOC must be at least 85% Nebbiolo and al\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003elow for up to 15% of other indigenous grape varieties, such as \u003c\/span\u003esuch as Barbera and Dolcetto. In practice most are made entirely from Nebbiolo.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont_Nebbiolo_Serralunga_d_Alba_1024x1024.png?v=1716562793\" alt=\"\" style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSerralunga d'Alba in Piedmont, where the Nebbiolo grape is king\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Barolo Landscape\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696167899\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696167899\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo, often referred to as the \"King of Wines\", is a powerful and full-bodied red wine made from Nebbiolo grapes. Barolo is special due to its unique combination of factors – its terroir, the Nebbiolo grape, and its winemaking traditions. The zone's spectacular terroir, a multitude of distinctive microclimates and soil compositions, is ideal for growing Nebbiolo. Furthermore, the centuries-old winemaking traditions add to the allure, resulting in a wine that is complex, full-bodied, and capable of aging gracefully for many years.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Barolo zone (the regulated production area) is a relatively small area in Piemont. It is 11km north to south and just over 8km at its widest point. Barolo comprises 11 different communes around the larger towns in the area - some of the more famous towns or villages are Barolo, Montforte d’Alba, La Morra and Serralunga d’Alba. These communes each have unique geography, soil, climate and altitude. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBarolo largely consists of three chains of hills separated by two north-south valleys, the Central Valley and Serralunga Valley. The communes are dotted up and down the twin valleys and hilly ranges that offer a huge variety of terroir.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 3D flyover of Barola below is worth watching to appreciate the compexity of the topography, the countless number of small hills and the changes that occur in the space of a few metres. However, for anyone wishing to gain a full appreciation of what Barolo looks like in the flesh, \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAlessandro Masnaghetti's\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" title=\"Alessandro Masnaghetti's Barolo MGA 360\" style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBarolo MGA 360\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" title=\"Alessandro Masnaghetti's Barolo MGA 360\" style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e°\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eprovides a superb digital replica of the landscape.\u003cbr\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003ca title=\"Barolo Vineyards in 3D flyover\" href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/HQmwjRhY-SA\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/HQmwjRhY-SA\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo3Dflyover_1facdbb5-6f80-4e50-8b28-4084fbf68997_240x240.png?v=1696134906\" alt=\"Barolo Vineyards in 3D flyover\" style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo3Dflyover_1facdbb5-6f80-4e50-8b28-4084fbf68997_240x240.png?v=1696134906\" data-mce-style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Click on image to play 3D flyover\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Communes and 'Cru' Vineyards of Barolo\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThere are 11 approved communes in the Barolo production zone. \u003c\/span\u003eOver 87% of Barolo is produced in the original five and largest communes; La Morra, Barolo, Castiglione Falletto, Serralunga d'Alba and Monforte d'Alba.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe remaining six communes are Novello, Verduno, Cherasco, Roddi, Grinzane Cavour and Diano d’Alba (which is planted \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emore to Dolcetto than Nebbiolo). Interestingly, the first two of these are home to two of the most in-demand vineyards in the entire region; Monvigliero in Verduno and Ravera in Novello.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLa Morra and Barolo are the two main communes in the western part of the zone, also known as the Central Valley. The soils are Tortonian - a fertile, compact, calcareous marl that produces graceful wines with more florals and fruit. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Serralunga Valley to the east has Serravalian (also referred to as Helvetian) soils which are heavy in sandstone and sand, producing structured bold wines with high tannins. Within this area you will find the famous communes of Castiglione Falleto, Serralunga d’Alba and Monforte d’Alba.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Communes of Barolo\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolloCommunes_600x600_c9ff96db-54e3-47dd-bcea-805b78acc453_600x600.jpg?v=1716186871\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolloCommunes_600x600_c9ff96db-54e3-47dd-bcea-805b78acc453_600x600.jpg?v=1716186871\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommunes of Barolo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo drinkers had become familiar over the years with the most recognizable of the 11 commune names appearing on the labels; Castiglione Falletto and Monforte d'Alba, for example. However, i\u003c\/span\u003en the ‘90s the world rediscovered Barolo, whose wines bore little comparison to the rough wines of the past. Barolo began selling out, prices increased and so did the surface area of vineyards. With new producers came a rise in new labels and new ways to distinguish one from the other. They began personalising their labels with more than just the commune; they used the names of the vineyards, villages, and people. This desire to differentiate quickly got out of control, and as has been the case in many other wine regions, the consumer became confused.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe first priority was to create order, to delineate and define the varying wine-growing areas. To make it official, the Barolo Consorzio, in cooperation with the province of Cuneo and the various Barolo villages, undertook the challenging task of regulating the use of vineyard and zonal names on labels. By 2010, after several years of hard work, they came up with a list of geographical designations that are allowed to appear on the Barolo label. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThese geographical designations or MGA (\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emenzioni geografiche aggiuntive\u003c\/em\u003e or additional geographic designations) refer to specific delimited areas of production and can be seen as the equivalent of the French term cru. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn total, there are 181 geographical designations, of which 11 are communal (one for each commune; e.g. \u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo del Comune di Serralunga d’Alba, Barolo del Comune di La Morra,\u003c\/em\u003e etc.). Wines may be labeled with one of these MGA provided the fruit comes from the stated designation. \u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe MGAs – it’s important to emphasize this – do not imply superiority in a qualitative sense. A Barolo carrying the name of an MGA on the label is not necessarily better or more valuable than a Barolo with another name or even with no name at all, although for many producers Barolo wines with an MGA usually represent the most prestigious wines in their lists.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMost of the 170 MGA refer to a single vineyard such as Cannubi or Brunate, however as there are a number of exceptions, the MGA term cannot technically be defined as a vineyard. Bussia, for example, in the commune of Monforte d'Alba and the second largest MGA at 738 acres, is actually a large hill made up of several vineyards. \u003c\/span\u003eThe name of single-vineyard wines within\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e their eponymous MGA \u003c\/span\u003eare permitted on the label. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePoderi Aldo Conterno, one of Barolo’s greatest producers, makes wines from three separate vineyards situated within the Bussia MGA; Colonello, Cicala and Romirasco.\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ca title=\"Barolo MGA or Cru Official Map\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/uc?export=download\u0026amp;confirm=no_antivirus\u0026amp;id=1jgpl-l1jvpsy2Y1MQwwiSZmf95R51IaL\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/uc?export=download\u0026amp;confirm=no_antivirus\u0026amp;id=1jgpl-l1jvpsy2Y1MQwwiSZmf95R51IaL\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/BaroloCrusMap_33a4cb8d-4b17-47ab-b217-9f75dfb93dfe_600x600.png?v=1696144900\" alt=\"Barolo MGA or Cru Map\" style=\"float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/BaroloCrusMap_33a4cb8d-4b17-47ab-b217-9f75dfb93dfe_600x600.png?v=1696144900\" data-mce-style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClick map to enlarge 🔍\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA number of the MGA extend across more than one Commune. The Cerequio MGA, for example, is located between the towns of La Morra and Barolo and extends across the boundary of the two communes. It is one of the most prestigious vineyards within the appellation and a truly stunning landscape – it is so revered that it has been nicknamed the \"Riviera of the Langhe.\" Grapes from both sides are of extremely high-quality and become great wines, but acquiring land with the southwestern exposure is considered la crème de la crème of the MGA. Therefore, it is no coincidence that the labels that have made Barolo history are all from here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStrange as it may seem, European laws prevent the use of two or more MGA names together on the label, thus effectively stopping a noble and well-documented tradition of Barolo obtained by blending various vineyards. However, if the MGAs are situated in the same commune, the label may specify \"Barolo del Comune di Barolo\" or \"Barolo del Comune di La Morra\" and so on. Although contradictory, the same law that prevents use of two or more MGAs on the label allows the producer to add up to 15% of Barolo obtained from a second MGA to a Barolo with an MGA stated on the label.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe proper term for a vineyard is \u003cem\u003evigna\u003c\/em\u003e, which can also appear on the label. Two well-known examples are Poderi Oddero Barolo Bussia Vigna Mondoca and Bruno Giacosa Vigna Le Rocche Barolo Falletto. Note that the term vigna does not have to be used as an identifier – Aldo Conterno does not label his separate Barolos with this descriptor.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA brief summary of the most important communes and crus in the Barolo production zone follows.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLa Morra\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"La Morra Commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-LaMorra_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696147933\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-LaMorra_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696147933\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSituated at the northern end of the Central Valley, La Morra ranks first among all the communes as far as most acreage of Nebbiolo planted for production of Barolo as well as number of wineries (62); it is tied with Serralunga d’Alba for most MGA (39). Several of the highest vineyards in the zone are located here at elevations of more than 420m.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLa Morra is known for Barolo with rounder, more gentle tannins and more floral aromatics (especially from the Brunate MGA), as opposed to wines from Serralunga and Monforte d'Alba. The wines from the Rocche dell’Annunziata site are among the most complex, elegant and structured in all the commune.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRocche dell’Annunziata, La Serra, Arborina, Conca, Brunate and Cerequio (these last two are primarily situated in La Morra, with a smaller part of these sites also in the commune of Barolo).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRenato Ratti, Roberto Voerzio, Poderi Oddero, Elio Altare, Fratelli Revello, Marcarini, Mauro Molino, Mauro Veglio, Trediberri, Aurelio Settimo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Barolo Commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Barolo_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696148642\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Barolo_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696148642\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSituated at the southern end of the Central Valley, t\u003c\/span\u003ehis commune lends its name to the wine produced in the Barolo Zone. The wines here are a mix of styles, with a typical Barolo from here being rich in tannins with a slight austerity. The most famous vineyard here is Cannubi, which contains both Tortonian and Serravalian soils, creating wines of great complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eCannubi, Sarmassa, Bricco delle Viole, Terlo, Liste, Castellero\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eBartolo Mascarello, Marchesi di Barolo, Scarzello, Borgogno, Damilano, Giuseppe Rinaldi, Francesco Rinaldi, Giacamo Brezza, Luciano Sandrone\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMonforte d'Alba\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Monforte d'Alba\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Monforted_Alba_Barolo_52bdc4ed-ac7b-4dfb-b7e3-124cbc5d2daa_1024x1024.png?v=1696165973\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Monforted_Alba_Barolo_52bdc4ed-ac7b-4dfb-b7e3-124cbc5d2daa_1024x1024.png?v=1696165973\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSituated at the far southeastern reaches of the zone, Monforte d’Alba is home to long-aging, powerful examples of Barolo. There are only 11 MGA, but 53 wineries here; one reason for this is the large number of producers that make a Bussia Barolo. The wines here are generally quite ripe, and while there are numerous producers that take a modern approach in the cellar (e.g. Domenico Clerico), there are some such as Elio Grasso that specialize in more traditional examples of Barolo, with their Ginestra Casa Maté and Gavarini Chiniera Barolos.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eGinestra, Bussia, Mosconi, Castelletto, Le Coste di Monforte\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eElio Grasso, Domenico Clerico, Poderi Aldo Conterno, Giovanni Manzone, Josetta Saffirio, Giacomo Conterno, Giacomo Fenocchio, Amalia Cascina in Langa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSerralunga d’Alba \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Serralunga d’Alba commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Serralungad_Alba_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155302\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Serralungad_Alba_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155302\"\u003eSituated north of Monforte d’Alba, Serralunga d’Alba marks the eastern border of the Barolo zone. If a classic syle of Barolo combines deep structure and longevity, then the Barolos of Serralunga are certainly among the most classic. These wines require time, but offers great rewards at their peak. Yet, you can find very approachable examples of Barolo from here; the offerings of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eBarolo Comune di Serralunga d’Alba\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eare often quite open upon release, displaying the rich fruit and tannins of Serralunga in a more refined manner. These are among the best values of the entire Barolo zone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs much as any commune, Serralunga is known for its remarkable assortment of vineyards, including Lazzarito, Vignarionda, Falletto of Bruno Giacosa, and Francia, the source of the celebrated Monfortino Barolo of Giacomo Conterno.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eFalletto, Francia, Lazzarito, Vignarionda, Margheria, Cerretta, Prapò, Parafada\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eFontanafredda, Ettore Germano, Paolo Manzone, Giovanni Rosso, Schiavenza, Palladino, Luigi Pira\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCastiglione Falletto\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-CastiglioneFalletto_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155789\" alt=\"Castiglione Falletto\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-CastiglioneFalletto_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155789\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe commune of Castiglione Falletto is located to the west of Serralunga d’Alba, north of Monforte d’Alba and east of La Morra. The soils here are mixed with a good percentage of sand, resulting in wines that are often more fragrant and less tannic than those from Serralunga and Monforte. A typical Castiglione Falletto Barolo displays red cherry and starwberry fruit aromas and flavors along with distinct red spice notes. Rocche di Castiglione is arguably the best known site here, along with Villero (the source of Vietti\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eriserva\u003c\/em\u003e), Bricco Rocche of Ceretto, and Monprivato, this last made famous by Giuseppe Mascarello.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRocche di Castiglione, Bricco Rocche, Villero, Bricco Boschis, Parussi, Fiasco, Pernanno, Monprivato, Montanello\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eVietti, Paolo Scavino, Cavallotto, Monchiero Fratelli, Giovanni Sordo, Livia Fontanai\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVerduno\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Verduno_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696156532\" alt=\"Verduno Commune\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Verduno_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696156532\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVerduno represents the far northwest reaches of the Barolo zone, and is known for wines that combine excellent ripeness with subtle spice, generally with mid-weight tannins. Clearly Verduno is most famous for the Monvigliero vineyard, situated just east of the town of Verduno, ranging from 220-310m above sea level. While most of this commune’s producers make a Monvigliero Barolo, recently many vintners throughout the Barolo zone have also added a Barolo from this vineyard - this includes Paolo Scavino, Giovanni Sordo and Terre del Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eMonvigliero, San Lorenzo di Verduno, Boscatto, Massara\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eBurlotto, Fratelli Alessandria, Bel Colle, Castello di Verduno\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNovello\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-NovelloBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696157519\" alt=\"Novello Commune\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-NovelloBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696157519\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe commune of Novello is located at the far southwestern corner of the Barolo zone and has one of the coolest climates of any commune, thanks to the winds from the Cottian Alps to the south. The wines of Novello were among the most unrelenting years ago, but because of climate change, a typical Barolo from Novello is now riper and much more elegant. Clearly the interest in this commune over the past decade can be traced to the work of Valter Fissore and his wife Nadia, at their Elvio Cogno estate, with wines from the Ravera vineyard. Recently several renowned producers such as Vietti and Paolo Scavino have also released a Ravera Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRavera, Sottocastello di Novello, Cerviano-Merli, Panerole, Corini-Palaretta\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eElvio Cogno, Ca’Viola, Le Strette, Marenco\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRocche di Castiglione\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Monchiero Rocche di Castiglione Vineyard\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Monchiero_Rocche_di_Castiglione_Highlight_Block_1024x1024.png?v=1716515692\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Monchiero_Rocche_di_Castiglione_Highlight_Block_1024x1024.png?v=1716515692\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Monchiero Rocche di Castiglione Vineyard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe fabled \"Rocche\", one of the smallest and most renowned crus in Barolo, gives us a window into the elegant, feminine side of Barolo.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: right;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: right;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Monchiero_Rocche_di_Castiglione_Map_2_480x480.jpg?v=1716517239\" style=\"margin-top: 80px; margin-bottom: 65px; margin-left: 30px; float: right;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Monchiero_Rocche_di_Castiglione_Map_2_480x480.jpg?v=1716517239\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 30px; float: right;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eRocche di Castiglione is one of the smallest and most renowned vineyards in Barolo. Located at an altitude of 300-350 meters above sea level, this cru (MGA) consists of a number of small, steep vineyard properties and forms a long narrow strip along the side of a very steep hill with an east-southeast exposition. The lower part of this long strip of earth, which is about 1.5 km long and 60-70 meters high, sits on a cliff (\"rocche\") that in some places drops as much as 150 meters to the Perno river at the bottom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe terrain consists primarily of limestone with a notable presence of sand and tuff. These characteristics give the wines of Rocche unique, well-defined aromas, soft tannins, excellent balance, and a distinctive elegance. The vines of Rocche have a median age of about 40 years. This vineyard is dedicated exclusively to Nebbiolo for Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eMonchiero is one of seven producers with title to this important vineyard. Vittoria Monchiero has this to say, \"My family bought this parcel in the 1970's. This is the most inaccessible and the steepest vineyard we have, it's hard to work, and also dangerous. But it is also the most important tract, one that gives rise to a Barolo with incredible elegance. It is the most sought-after Barolo, probably the one people love best. It's a source of great satisfaction to have a corner of this part of Castiglione Falletto. An elegant Barolo. Why elegant? Because you can see that the soil here contains a small amount of sand. And this sand is what gives a wine elegance. This elegance is part of the regal structure of this wine, but the sand also adds great aroma, an elegant aroma. This accounts for the great success of this cru, so sought-after by everyone.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Monchiero_Family_1024x1024.png?v=1716422576\" alt=\"The Monchiero family - Stefano, Vittorio, Luca and Daniela\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Monchiero_Family_1024x1024.png?v=1716422576\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Monchiero family - Stefano, Vittorio, Luca and Daniela (left to right)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAzienda Agricola Monchiero is nestled in the picturesque commune of Castiglione Falletto in the Barolo region It is surrounded by some of the greatest terroir you will find in all of Piedmont. There's a belt of vineyards in Castiglione Falletto that some refer to as the Chambolle-Musigny of Piedmont and Monchiero sits right within this patch. The wines from this exceptional producer are complex and elegant, with incredible balance and purity of fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eFor generations the Monchiero family lived on the Montanello estate, just outside the small town of Castiglione Falletto and worked the vineyard as sharecroppers. When the system was abolished in the 1950s, the family left the estate and brothers Remo and Maggiorino Monchiero started producing wine under their family name. In 1982 they purchased a small winery in Castiglione Falletto that was built in the 13th century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIn the 1980s, Vittorio Monchiero, son of Maggiorino, graduated from the College of Viticulture in Alba and gradually became involved in the business operated by his father and uncle. After marrying his wife Daniela, he took over the wine cellar and marketing in the 1990s, attending trade fairs worldwide to expand Monchiero's client base. He also acquired choice patches of land, including a plot in the Montanello cru which saw the family return to their roots. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eVittorio remains committed to the region’s traditional practices as opposed to the flashier 'international style' that has taken root in many of Piedmont’s cellars over the last few decades. He favours long maceration periods with skin contact and aging in large Slavonian oak casks, which he believes helps express the flavours and aromas that make Piedmont’s wines unique. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIn 2017 Vittorio's eldest son, Luca, joined the family winery.  His younger son, Stefano, is studying viticulture and will soon do the same.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eToday, the Monchiero family own 25 acres of vineyard spread throughout Piedmont. Seven acres of vineyards in Castiglione Falletto are the heart of the family's holdings, which produce Barolos from the Rocche di Castiglione and Montanello crus, a Barolo Del Comune di Castiglione Faletto from mainly the Pernanno cru and a Langhe Nebbiolo from parts of the vineyards that aren't within the Barolo appellation. The family also produces a Barolo from the Roere di Santa Maria cru, in La Morra. Since the 1990s the cru vineyards in Castiglione Falletto and La Morra have been completely replanted using the best grafting and training techniques.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896866115825,"sku":"","price":175.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/monchiero-rocche-di-castiglione-falletto-barolo-DOCG-2013.jpg?v=1697176888"},{"product_id":"monchiero-rocche-di-castiglione-barolo-docg-2012","title":"Monchiero Rocche di Castiglione, Barolo DOCG 2012","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe fabled \"Rocche\", one of the smallest and most renowned crus in Barolo, gives us a window into the elegant, feminine side of Barolo.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAzienda Agricola Monchiero is one of the best kept secrets of Piedmont. Nestled in the picturesque commune of Castiglione Falletto in the Barolo region, it is surrounded by some of the greatest terroir you will find in all of Piedmont. There's a belt of vineyards in Castiglione Falletto that some refer to as the Chambolle-Musigny of Piedmont and Monchiero sits right within this patch. The wines from this exceptional producer are complex and elegant, with incredible balance and purity of fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Sweet red berries dusted with white pepper, aromatic herbs, red cherry and cola, old orange peel, whiff of new leather and smoke too. Medium bodied, supple and smooth glide of fine dusty tannin, orange peel aromatics, new leather savouries and scrub herb, with plump red fruits and a gentle dusting of tannin on a pretty sound spicy and herb-laced finish. Very nice.\"\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eGary Walsh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"The 2012 Monchiero Rocche Di Castiglione Falletto Barolo is produced from 25+ year old nebbiolo vines at an altitude of 330 metres above sea level. Ultra red-fruited with real poise and finesse. There's great minerality and an almond meal character and truffle scents with the quintessential cleansing aniseed in the form of a fennel seed like flavour profile. An archetypal 2012 Barolo, fine boned and elegant.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eVittorio Monchiero\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/vimeo.com\/364337432\" title=\"Vittorio Monchiero discusses his Rocche di Castiglione Barolo\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/vimeo.com\/364337432\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Monchiero_Rocche_di_Castiglione_Video_600x600.png?v=1716517704\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Monchiero_Rocche_di_Castiglione_Video_600x600.png?v=1716517704\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eVittorio Monchiero discusses his Rocche di Castiglione Barolo\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Sweet red berries dusted with white pepper, aromatic herbs, red cherry and cola, old orange peel, whiff of new leather and smoke too. Medium bodied, supple and smooth glide of fine dusty tannin, orange peel aromatics, new leather savouries and scrub herb, with plump red fruits and a gentle dusting of tannin on a pretty sound spicy and herb-laced finish. Very nice\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Drink: 2018-2030+.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front – 94 points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePiedmont Nebbiolo\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Nebbiolo_Grape.png?v=1716280198\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Nebbiolo_Grape.png?v=1716280198\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Piedmont wine region is located in the north-west corner of Italy. The name Piemonte means \"at the foot of the mountains\", the mountains in this case being the Alps. Piedmont is just Italy’s seventh largest wine region, but what it lacks in quantity it makes up for in quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePiedmont is famous for its Nebbiolo wines. Nebbiolo, the most exalted wine variety of Piedmont, gets its name from the Italian word for 'fog', \u003cem\u003enebbia\u003c\/em\u003e. During harvest, which generally takes place late in October, a deep, intense fog sets into the Langhe region where the Nebbiolo vineyards are located. The Nebbiolo heartland is the tiny Barolo production zone, a cluster of fog-prone hills around the village of the same name.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNebbiolo is early-budding, but also late-ripening. It needs good weather and lots of sunlight to achieve full ripeness, which is why the best vineyards for growing Nebbiolo are located on hillsides that are exposed to plenty of sunlight. Hence the suitability of the slopes of the Langhe hills near the town of Alba. Nebbiolo is only planted on the hills at an altitude above 250m, as fog hangs over lower vineyards for large parts of the day and there is no chance of making decent wine from this late-ripening variety if it is not exposed to maximum sunshine. The lower vineyards are generally planted with Barbera or Dolcetto.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSoil types also play a crucial role. Nebbiolo thrives on calcareous marl, a lime-rich mudstone that is found on the right bank of the Tanaro River, home to the famous appellations Barolo and Barbaresco. Nebbiolo grapes grown on other soil types tend to make wines that are not as aromatic and elegant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNebbiolo produces a full-bodied wine with high levels of acidity and tannin, particularly when it is young - at odds with its light colour. It also has great aging potential – particularly the Barbaresco and Barolo wines that garner the highest price tags.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two highest classifications of wines produced from Nebbiolo in Piedmont are the DOCG denomination \u003cem\u003eDenominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita\u003c\/em\u003e (Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin) and the DOC denomination \u003cem\u003eDenominazione d'Origine Controllata\u003c\/em\u003e (Denomination of Controlled Origin).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn total, there are seventeen DOCG and DOC wines made in Piedmont. The five applicable to Nebbiolo are Barolo DOCG, Barbaresco DOCG and Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC (which must be made from 100% Nebbiolo) and Roero DOCG and Langhe Nebbiolo DOC (which must be made from at least 85% Nebbiolo).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/LangheMap_0ced5874-ccd1-4704-8851-8597023cfb1c_600x600.jpg?v=1696556901\" style=\"margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block;\" data-mce-style=\"margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/LangheMap_0ced5874-ccd1-4704-8851-8597023cfb1c_600x600.jpg?v=1696556901\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDOCG and DOC Nebbiolo production zones in Piedmont\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo DOCG\u003c\/strong\u003e is perhaps the most famous Nebbiolo wine. Its name derives from the small town in the heart of the Barolo production zone, but it is produced in eleven communes around the larger hillside towns in the area. Barolo DOCG wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo and must age in oak for at least 18 months with a total age time of 38 months before release. Barolo Riserva DOCG must \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eage in oak for at least 18 months with a total age time of 62 months before \u003c\/span\u003ebeing released.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarbaresco DOCG\u003c\/strong\u003e is often described as more elegant than the more powerful Barolo, the 'queen' to Barolo’s 'king'. Barbaresco DOCG wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo. The production zone is tiny, a third of the size of Barolo, and has less stringent regulations. Barbaresco DOCG wines must age in oak for at least 9 months with a total age time of 26 months before release. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarbaresco Riserva DOCG must \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eage in oak for at least 9 months with a total age time of 50 months before \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ebeing released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNebbiolo d’Alba DOC\u003c\/strong\u003e is produced between Barolo and Barbaresco. Near the two zones the wines are full-bodied and age very well. Further away, they’re delicate and best drunk young. This wine can also come from grapes from Barola or Barbaresco not quite up to heavenly standards, such as grapes from new vineyards in the famous hills or from less exalted vineyards. Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo and \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emust age for at least 12 months before release. Nebbiolo d’Alba Superiore DOC wines must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 18 months before being released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRoero DOCG i\u003c\/strong\u003es a little known zone just north of Barolo within the Langhe. Roero DOCG wines must be at least 95% Nebbiolo and must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 20 months before release. Roero Riserva DOCG must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 32 months before being released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLanghe Nebbiolo DOC\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003efalls in (is a subset of) one of the largest wine zones in Piedmont, Langhe DOC. \u003c\/span\u003eThe Langhe DOC covers 54 communes of the Langhe and Roero hills. Varietally focused wines can include the name Langhe plus the grape. All told, there are 23 different forms of Langhe wines with Langhe Nebbiolo being just one. Langhe Nebbiolo DOC wines can come from anywhere in the Langhe i.e. from any of the four zones above (Barolo, Barbaresco, Nebbiolo d’Alba or Roero). Langhe Nebbiolo DOC must be at least 85% Nebbiolo and al\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003elow for up to 15% of other indigenous grape varieties, such as \u003c\/span\u003esuch as Barbera and Dolcetto. In practice most are made entirely from Nebbiolo.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont_Nebbiolo_Serralunga_d_Alba_1024x1024.png?v=1716562793\" alt=\"\" style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSerralunga d'Alba in Piedmont, where the Nebbiolo grape is king\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Barolo Landscape\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696167899\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696167899\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo, often referred to as the \"King of Wines\", is a powerful and full-bodied red wine made from Nebbiolo grapes. Barolo is special due to its unique combination of factors – its terroir, the Nebbiolo grape, and its winemaking traditions. The zone's spectacular terroir, a multitude of distinctive microclimates and soil compositions, is ideal for growing Nebbiolo. Furthermore, the centuries-old winemaking traditions add to the allure, resulting in a wine that is complex, full-bodied, and capable of aging gracefully for many years.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Barolo zone (the regulated production area) is a relatively small area in Piemont. It is 11km north to south and just over 8km at its widest point. Barolo comprises 11 different communes around the larger towns in the area - some of the more famous towns or villages are Barolo, Montforte d’Alba, La Morra and Serralunga d’Alba. These communes each have unique geography, soil, climate and altitude. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBarolo largely consists of three chains of hills separated by two north-south valleys, the Central Valley and Serralunga Valley. The communes are dotted up and down the twin valleys and hilly ranges that offer a huge variety of terroir.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 3D flyover of Barola below is worth watching to appreciate the compexity of the topography, the countless number of small hills and the changes that occur in the space of a few metres. However, for anyone wishing to gain a full appreciation of what Barolo looks like in the flesh, \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAlessandro Masnaghetti's\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003ca style=\"color: #808080;\" title=\"Alessandro Masnaghetti's Barolo MGA 360\" href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\"\u003eBarolo MGA 360\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca style=\"color: #808080;\" title=\"Alessandro Masnaghetti's Barolo MGA 360\" href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\"\u003e°\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eprovides a superb digital replica of the landscape.\u003cbr\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/HQmwjRhY-SA\" title=\"Barolo Vineyards in 3D flyover\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/HQmwjRhY-SA\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" alt=\"Barolo Vineyards in 3D flyover\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo3Dflyover_1facdbb5-6f80-4e50-8b28-4084fbf68997_240x240.png?v=1696134906\" data-mce-style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo3Dflyover_1facdbb5-6f80-4e50-8b28-4084fbf68997_240x240.png?v=1696134906\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Click on image to play 3D flyover\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Communes and 'Cru' Vineyards of Barolo\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThere are 11 approved communes in the Barolo production zone. \u003c\/span\u003eOver 87% of Barolo is produced in the original five and largest communes; La Morra, Barolo, Castiglione Falletto, Serralunga d'Alba and Monforte d'Alba.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe remaining six communes are Novello, Verduno, Cherasco, Roddi, Grinzane Cavour and Diano d’Alba (which is planted \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emore to Dolcetto than Nebbiolo). Interestingly, the first two of these are home to two of the most in-demand vineyards in the entire region; Monvigliero in Verduno and Ravera in Novello.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLa Morra and Barolo are the two main communes in the western part of the zone, also known as the Central Valley. The soils are Tortonian - a fertile, compact, calcareous marl that produces graceful wines with more florals and fruit. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Serralunga Valley to the east has Serravalian (also referred to as Helvetian) soils which are heavy in sandstone and sand, producing structured bold wines with high tannins. Within this area you will find the famous communes of Castiglione Falleto, Serralunga d’Alba and Monforte d’Alba.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolloCommunes_600x600_c9ff96db-54e3-47dd-bcea-805b78acc453_600x600.jpg?v=1716186871\" alt=\"Communes of Barolo\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolloCommunes_600x600_c9ff96db-54e3-47dd-bcea-805b78acc453_600x600.jpg?v=1716186871\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommunes of Barolo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo drinkers had become familiar over the years with the most recognizable of the 11 commune names appearing on the labels; Castiglione Falletto and Monforte d'Alba, for example. However, i\u003c\/span\u003en the ‘90s the world rediscovered Barolo, whose wines bore little comparison to the rough wines of the past. Barolo began selling out, prices increased and so did the surface area of vineyards. With new producers came a rise in new labels and new ways to distinguish one from the other. They began personalising their labels with more than just the commune; they used the names of the vineyards, villages, and people. This desire to differentiate quickly got out of control, and as has been the case in many other wine regions, the consumer became confused.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe first priority was to create order, to delineate and define the varying wine-growing areas. To make it official, the Barolo Consorzio, in cooperation with the province of Cuneo and the various Barolo villages, undertook the challenging task of regulating the use of vineyard and zonal names on labels. By 2010, after several years of hard work, they came up with a list of geographical designations that are allowed to appear on the Barolo label. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThese geographical designations or MGA (\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emenzioni geografiche aggiuntive\u003c\/em\u003e or additional geographic designations) refer to specific delimited areas of production and can be seen as the equivalent of the French term cru. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn total, there are 181 geographical designations, of which 11 are communal (one for each commune; e.g. \u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo del Comune di Serralunga d’Alba, Barolo del Comune di La Morra,\u003c\/em\u003e etc.). Wines may be labeled with one of these MGA provided the fruit comes from the stated designation. \u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe MGAs – it’s important to emphasize this – do not imply superiority in a qualitative sense. A Barolo carrying the name of an MGA on the label is not necessarily better or more valuable than a Barolo with another name or even with no name at all, although for many producers Barolo wines with an MGA usually represent the most prestigious wines in their lists.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMost of the 170 MGA refer to a single vineyard such as Cannubi or Brunate, however as there are a number of exceptions, the MGA term cannot technically be defined as a vineyard. Bussia, for example, in the commune of Monforte d'Alba and the second largest MGA at 738 acres, is actually a large hill made up of several vineyards. \u003c\/span\u003eThe name of single-vineyard wines within\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e their eponymous MGA \u003c\/span\u003eare permitted on the label. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePoderi Aldo Conterno, one of Barolo’s greatest producers, makes wines from three separate vineyards situated within the Bussia MGA; Colonello, Cicala and Romirasco.\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/uc?export=download\u0026amp;confirm=no_antivirus\u0026amp;id=1jgpl-l1jvpsy2Y1MQwwiSZmf95R51IaL\" title=\"Barolo MGA or Cru Official Map\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/uc?export=download\u0026amp;confirm=no_antivirus\u0026amp;id=1jgpl-l1jvpsy2Y1MQwwiSZmf95R51IaL\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: none;\" alt=\"Barolo MGA or Cru Map\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/BaroloCrusMap_33a4cb8d-4b17-47ab-b217-9f75dfb93dfe_600x600.png?v=1696144900\" data-mce-style=\"float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/BaroloCrusMap_33a4cb8d-4b17-47ab-b217-9f75dfb93dfe_600x600.png?v=1696144900\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClick map to enlarge 🔍\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA number of the MGA extend across more than one Commune. The Cerequio MGA, for example, is located between the towns of La Morra and Barolo and extends across the boundary of the two communes. It is one of the most prestigious vineyards within the appellation and a truly stunning landscape – it is so revered that it has been nicknamed the \"Riviera of the Langhe.\" Grapes from both sides are of extremely high-quality and become great wines, but acquiring land with the southwestern exposure is considered la crème de la crème of the MGA. Therefore, it is no coincidence that the labels that have made Barolo history are all from here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStrange as it may seem, European laws prevent the use of two or more MGA names together on the label, thus effectively stopping a noble and well-documented tradition of Barolo obtained by blending various vineyards. However, if the MGAs are situated in the same commune, the label may specify \"Barolo del Comune di Barolo\" or \"Barolo del Comune di La Morra\" and so on. Although contradictory, the same law that prevents use of two or more MGAs on the label allows the producer to add up to 15% of Barolo obtained from a second MGA to a Barolo with an MGA stated on the label.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe proper term for a vineyard is \u003cem\u003evigna\u003c\/em\u003e, which can also appear on the label. Two well-known examples are Poderi Oddero Barolo Bussia Vigna Mondoca and Bruno Giacosa Vigna Le Rocche Barolo Falletto. Note that the term vigna does not have to be used as an identifier – Aldo Conterno does not label his separate Barolos with this descriptor.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA brief summary of the most important communes and crus in the Barolo production zone follows.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLa Morra\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-LaMorra_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696147933\" alt=\"La Morra Commune\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-LaMorra_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696147933\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSituated at the northern end of the Central Valley, La Morra ranks first among all the communes as far as most acreage of Nebbiolo planted for production of Barolo as well as number of wineries (62); it is tied with Serralunga d’Alba for most MGA (39). Several of the highest vineyards in the zone are located here at elevations of more than 420m.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLa Morra is known for Barolo with rounder, more gentle tannins and more floral aromatics (especially from the Brunate MGA), as opposed to wines from Serralunga and Monforte d'Alba. The wines from the Rocche dell’Annunziata site are among the most complex, elegant and structured in all the commune.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRocche dell’Annunziata, La Serra, Arborina, Conca, Brunate and Cerequio (these last two are primarily situated in La Morra, with a smaller part of these sites also in the commune of Barolo).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRenato Ratti, Roberto Voerzio, Poderi Oddero, Elio Altare, Fratelli Revello, Marcarini, Mauro Molino, Mauro Veglio, Trediberri, Aurelio Settimo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Barolo_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696148642\" alt=\"Barolo Commune\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Barolo_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696148642\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSituated at the southern end of the Central Valley, t\u003c\/span\u003ehis commune lends its name to the wine produced in the Barolo Zone. The wines here are a mix of styles, with a typical Barolo from here being rich in tannins with a slight austerity. The most famous vineyard here is Cannubi, which contains both Tortonian and Serravalian soils, creating wines of great complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eCannubi, Sarmassa, Bricco delle Viole, Terlo, Liste, Castellero\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eBartolo Mascarello, Marchesi di Barolo, Scarzello, Borgogno, Damilano, Giuseppe Rinaldi, Francesco Rinaldi, Giacamo Brezza, Luciano Sandrone\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMonforte d'Alba\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Monforted_Alba_Barolo_52bdc4ed-ac7b-4dfb-b7e3-124cbc5d2daa_1024x1024.png?v=1696165973\" alt=\"Monforte d'Alba\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Monforted_Alba_Barolo_52bdc4ed-ac7b-4dfb-b7e3-124cbc5d2daa_1024x1024.png?v=1696165973\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSituated at the far southeastern reaches of the zone, Monforte d’Alba is home to long-aging, powerful examples of Barolo. There are only 11 MGA, but 53 wineries here; one reason for this is the large number of producers that make a Bussia Barolo. The wines here are generally quite ripe, and while there are numerous producers that take a modern approach in the cellar (e.g. Domenico Clerico), there are some such as Elio Grasso that specialize in more traditional examples of Barolo, with their Ginestra Casa Maté and Gavarini Chiniera Barolos.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eGinestra, Bussia, Mosconi, Castelletto, Le Coste di Monforte\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eElio Grasso, Domenico Clerico, Poderi Aldo Conterno, Giovanni Manzone, Josetta Saffirio, Giacomo Conterno, Giacomo Fenocchio, Amalia Cascina in Langa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSerralunga d’Alba \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Serralungad_Alba_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155302\" alt=\"Serralunga d’Alba commune\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Serralungad_Alba_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155302\"\u003eSituated north of Monforte d’Alba, Serralunga d’Alba marks the eastern border of the Barolo zone. If a classic syle of Barolo combines deep structure and longevity, then the Barolos of Serralunga are certainly among the most classic. These wines require time, but offers great rewards at their peak. Yet, you can find very approachable examples of Barolo from here; the offerings of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eBarolo Comune di Serralunga d’Alba\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eare often quite open upon release, displaying the rich fruit and tannins of Serralunga in a more refined manner. These are among the best values of the entire Barolo zone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs much as any commune, Serralunga is known for its remarkable assortment of vineyards, including Lazzarito, Vignarionda, Falletto of Bruno Giacosa, and Francia, the source of the celebrated Monfortino Barolo of Giacomo Conterno.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eFalletto, Francia, Lazzarito, Vignarionda, Margheria, Cerretta, Prapò, Parafada\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eFontanafredda, Ettore Germano, Paolo Manzone, Giovanni Rosso, Schiavenza, Palladino, Luigi Pira\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCastiglione Falletto\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Castiglione Falletto\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-CastiglioneFalletto_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155789\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-CastiglioneFalletto_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155789\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe commune of Castiglione Falletto is located to the west of Serralunga d’Alba, north of Monforte d’Alba and east of La Morra. The soils here are mixed with a good percentage of sand, resulting in wines that are often more fragrant and less tannic than those from Serralunga and Monforte. A typical Castiglione Falletto Barolo displays red cherry and starwberry fruit aromas and flavors along with distinct red spice notes. Rocche di Castiglione is arguably the best known site here, along with Villero (the source of Vietti\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eriserva\u003c\/em\u003e), Bricco Rocche of Ceretto, and Monprivato, this last made famous by Giuseppe Mascarello.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRocche di Castiglione, Bricco Rocche, Villero, Bricco Boschis, Parussi, Fiasco, Pernanno, Monprivato, Montanello\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eVietti, Paolo Scavino, Cavallotto, Monchiero Fratelli, Giovanni Sordo, Livia Fontanai\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVerduno\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Verduno Commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Verduno_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696156532\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Verduno_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696156532\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVerduno represents the far northwest reaches of the Barolo zone, and is known for wines that combine excellent ripeness with subtle spice, generally with mid-weight tannins. Clearly Verduno is most famous for the Monvigliero vineyard, situated just east of the town of Verduno, ranging from 220-310m above sea level. While most of this commune’s producers make a Monvigliero Barolo, recently many vintners throughout the Barolo zone have also added a Barolo from this vineyard - this includes Paolo Scavino, Giovanni Sordo and Terre del Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eMonvigliero, San Lorenzo di Verduno, Boscatto, Massara\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eBurlotto, Fratelli Alessandria, Bel Colle, Castello di Verduno\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNovello\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Novello Commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-NovelloBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696157519\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-NovelloBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696157519\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe commune of Novello is located at the far southwestern corner of the Barolo zone and has one of the coolest climates of any commune, thanks to the winds from the Cottian Alps to the south. The wines of Novello were among the most unrelenting years ago, but because of climate change, a typical Barolo from Novello is now riper and much more elegant. Clearly the interest in this commune over the past decade can be traced to the work of Valter Fissore and his wife Nadia, at their Elvio Cogno estate, with wines from the Ravera vineyard. Recently several renowned producers such as Vietti and Paolo Scavino have also released a Ravera Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRavera, Sottocastello di Novello, Cerviano-Merli, Panerole, Corini-Palaretta\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eElvio Cogno, Ca’Viola, Le Strette, Marenco\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRocche di Castiglione\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Monchiero_Rocche_di_Castiglione_Highlight_Block_1024x1024.png?v=1716515692\" alt=\"Monchiero Rocche di Castiglione Vineyard\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Monchiero_Rocche_di_Castiglione_Highlight_Block_1024x1024.png?v=1716515692\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Monchiero Rocche di Castiglione Vineyard\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe fabled \"Rocche\", one of the smallest and most renowned crus in Barolo, gives us a window into the elegant, feminine side of Barolo.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: right;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: right;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Monchiero_Rocche_di_Castiglione_Map_2_480x480.jpg?v=1716517239\" style=\"margin-top: 80px; margin-bottom: 65px; margin-left: 30px; float: right;\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 30px; margin-left: 30px; float: right;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Monchiero_Rocche_di_Castiglione_Map_2_480x480.jpg?v=1716517239\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eRocche di Castiglione is one of the smallest and most renowned vineyards in Barolo. Located at an altitude of 300-350 meters above sea level, this cru (MGA) consists of a number of small, steep vineyard properties and forms a long narrow strip along the side of a very steep hill with an east-southeast exposition. The lower part of this long strip of earth, which is about 1.5 km long and 60-70 meters high, sits on a cliff (\"rocche\") that in some places drops as much as 150 meters to the Perno river at the bottom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe terrain consists primarily of limestone with a notable presence of sand and tuff. These characteristics give the wines of Rocche unique, well-defined aromas, soft tannins, excellent balance, and a distinctive elegance. The vines of Rocche have a median age of about 40 years. This vineyard is dedicated exclusively to Nebbiolo for Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eMonchiero is one of seven producers with title to this important vineyard. Vittoria Monchiero has this to say, \"My family bought this parcel in the 1970's. This is the most inaccessible and the steepest vineyard we have, it's hard to work, and also dangerous. But it is also the most important tract, one that gives rise to a Barolo with incredible elegance. It is the most sought-after Barolo, probably the one people love best. It's a source of great satisfaction to have a corner of this part of Castiglione Falletto. An elegant Barolo. Why elegant? Because you can see that the soil here contains a small amount of sand. And this sand is what gives a wine elegance. This elegance is part of the regal structure of this wine, but the sand also adds great aroma, an elegant aroma. This accounts for the great success of this cru, so sought-after by everyone.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe winery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"The Monchiero family - Stefano, Vittorio, Luca and Daniela\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Monchiero_Family_1024x1024.png?v=1716422576\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Monchiero_Family_1024x1024.png?v=1716422576\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Monchiero family - Stefano, Vittorio, Luca and Daniela (left to right)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAzienda Agricola Monchiero is nestled in the picturesque commune of Castiglione Falletto in the Barolo region It is surrounded by some of the greatest terroir you will find in all of Piedmont. There's a belt of vineyards in Castiglione Falletto that some refer to as the Chambolle-Musigny of Piedmont and Monchiero sits right within this patch. The wines from this exceptional producer are complex and elegant, with incredible balance and purity of fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eFor generations the Monchiero family lived on the Montanello estate, just outside the small town of Castiglione Falletto and worked the vineyard as sharecroppers. When the system was abolished in the 1950s, the family left the estate and brothers Remo and Maggiorino Monchiero started producing wine under their family name. In 1982 they purchased a small winery in Castiglione Falletto that was built in the 13th century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIn the 1980s, Vittorio Monchiero, son of Maggiorino, graduated from the College of Viticulture in Alba and gradually became involved in the business operated by his father and uncle. After marrying his wife Daniela, he took over the wine cellar and marketing in the 1990s, attending trade fairs worldwide to expand Monchiero's client base. He also acquired choice patches of land, including a plot in the Montanello cru which saw the family return to their roots. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eVittorio remains committed to the region’s traditional practices as opposed to the flashier 'international style' that has taken root in many of Piedmont’s cellars over the last few decades. He favours long maceration periods with skin contact and aging in large Slavonian oak casks, which he believes helps express the flavours and aromas that make Piedmont’s wines unique. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIn 2017 Vittorio's eldest son, Luca, joined the family winery.  His younger son, Stefano, is studying viticulture and will soon do the same.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eToday, the Monchiero family own 25 acres of vineyard spread throughout Piedmont. Seven acres of vineyards in Castiglione Falletto are the heart of the family's holdings, which produce Barolos from the Rocche di Castiglione and Montanello crus, a Barolo Del Comune di Castiglione Faletto from mainly the Pernanno cru and a Langhe Nebbiolo from parts of the vineyards that aren't within the Barolo appellation. The family also produces a Barolo from the Roere di Santa Maria cru, in La Morra. Since the 1990s the cru vineyards in Castiglione Falletto and La Morra have been completely replanted using the best grafting and training techniques.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896866148593,"sku":"","price":135.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/monchiero-rocche-di-castiglione-falletto-barolo-DOCG-2012_1de64820-c133-423f-bf06-79e5e3723728.jpg?v=1697176802"},{"product_id":"podere-ruggeri-corsini-bricco-san-pietro-barolo-docg-2012","title":"Podere Ruggeri Corsini 'Bricco San Pietro', Barolo DOCG 2012","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Ruggeri Corsini estate was founded in 1995 by Loredana Addari and Nicola Argamante who share a love of the countryside, a passion for great wines and a commitment to quality. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe estate is in the small hamlet of Corsini, \u003cspan\u003ewhich lies in a little valley just north of the village of Monforte d’Alba. \u003c\/span\u003eThe small estate has 10 hectares of vineyards comprised of great plots of old vines, including the famed Bussia and Bricco San Pietro crus.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Black raspberry, liquorice and menthol, black tea and roses, some pepper and spice. Medium to full bodied, plump and tannic, yet with succulence of cherry fruit and almost a chocolate almond thing going on, freshness and a touch of orange peel, slick of sticky tannin on a long finish. Power with restraint. This is a very good bottle of Barolo.\"  Gary Walsh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBricco San Pietro is a large cru in Monforte \u003cspan\u003ed’Alba.\u003c\/span\u003e The 2012 Corsini Bricco San Pietro Barolo was produced from 20-year-old Nebbiolo vines off a 1.2 hectare vineyard at an altitude of 420-470 metres above sea level. \u003cspan\u003eThis is a traditional Barolo, aged for 30 months in large used Slavonian oak casks. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe site's thinner soils and eastern exposition make for a more elegant, transparent wine, and you often get a chalky lift from the calcareous soils. Roughly 500 cases are produced annually. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ruggericorsini.it\/video\/timelapse.webm\" title=\"Podere Ruggeri Corsini\" rel=\"noopener\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/ruggericorsini.it\/video\/timelapse.webm\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Podere Ruggeri Corsini\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Podere_Ruggeri_Corsini_Video_6c1d3cf7-5a00-4b63-9938-8fecc6247fc0_480x480.jpg?v=1716945215\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Podere_Ruggeri_Corsini_Video_6c1d3cf7-5a00-4b63-9938-8fecc6247fc0_480x480.jpg?v=1716945215\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePodere Ruggeri Corsini\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\"Black raspberry, liquorice and menthol, black tea and roses, some pepper and spice. Medium to full bodied, plump and tannic, yet with succulence of cherry fruit and almost a chocolate almond thing going on, freshness and a touch of orange peel, slick of sticky tannin on a long finish. Power with restraint. This is a very good bottle of Barolo\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e. Drink: 2018-2030.\"  \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front – 93+ points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePiedmont Nebbiolo\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Nebbiolo_Grape.png?v=1716280198\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Nebbiolo_Grape.png?v=1716280198\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Piedmont wine region is located in the north-west corner of Italy. The name Piemonte means \"at the foot of the mountains\", the mountains in this case being the Alps. Piedmont is just Italy’s seventh largest wine region, but what it lacks in quantity it makes up for in quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePiedmont is famous for its Nebbiolo wines. Nebbiolo, the most exalted wine variety of Piedmont, gets its name from the Italian word for 'fog', \u003cem\u003enebbia\u003c\/em\u003e. During harvest, which generally takes place late in October, a deep, intense fog sets into the Langhe region where the Nebbiolo vineyards are located. The Nebbiolo heartland is the tiny Barolo production zone, a cluster of fog-prone hills around the village of the same name.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNebbiolo is early-budding, but also late-ripening. It needs good weather and lots of sunlight to achieve full ripeness, which is why the best vineyards for growing Nebbiolo are located on hillsides that are exposed to plenty of sunlight. Hence the suitability of the slopes of the Langhe hills near the town of Alba. Nebbiolo is only planted on the hills at an altitude above 250m, as fog hangs over lower vineyards for large parts of the day and there is no chance of making decent wine from this late-ripening variety if it is not exposed to maximum sunshine. The lower vineyards are generally planted with Barbera or Dolcetto.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSoil types also play a crucial role. Nebbiolo thrives on calcareous marl, a lime-rich mudstone that is found on the right bank of the Tanaro River, home to the famous appellations Barolo and Barbaresco. Nebbiolo grapes grown on other soil types tend to make wines that are not as aromatic and elegant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNebbiolo produces a full-bodied wine with high levels of acidity and tannin, particularly when it is young - at odds with its light colour. It also has great aging potential – particularly the Barbaresco and Barolo wines that garner the highest price tags.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two highest classifications of wines produced from Nebbiolo in Piedmont are the DOCG denomination \u003cem\u003eDenominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita\u003c\/em\u003e (Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin) and the DOC denomination \u003cem\u003eDenominazione d'Origine Controllata\u003c\/em\u003e (Denomination of Controlled Origin).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn total, there are seventeen DOCG and DOC wines made in Piedmont. The five applicable to Nebbiolo are Barolo DOCG, Barbaresco DOCG and Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC (which must be made from 100% Nebbiolo) and Roero DOCG and Langhe Nebbiolo DOC (which must be made from at least 85% Nebbiolo).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/LangheMap_0ced5874-ccd1-4704-8851-8597023cfb1c_600x600.jpg?v=1696556901\" style=\"margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block;\" data-mce-style=\"margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/LangheMap_0ced5874-ccd1-4704-8851-8597023cfb1c_600x600.jpg?v=1696556901\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDOCG and DOC Nebbiolo production zones in Piedmont\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo DOCG\u003c\/strong\u003e is perhaps the most famous Nebbiolo wine. Its name derives from the small town in the heart of the Barolo production zone, but it is produced in eleven communes around the larger hillside towns in the area. Barolo DOCG wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo and must age in oak for at least 18 months with a total age time of 38 months before release. Barolo Riserva DOCG must \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eage in oak for at least 18 months with a total age time of 62 months before \u003c\/span\u003ebeing released.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarbaresco DOCG\u003c\/strong\u003e is often described as more elegant than the more powerful Barolo, the 'queen' to Barolo’s 'king'. Barbaresco DOCG wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo. The production zone is tiny, a third of the size of Barolo, and has less stringent regulations. Barbaresco DOCG wines must age in oak for at least 9 months with a total age time of 26 months before release. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarbaresco Riserva DOCG must \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eage in oak for at least 9 months with a total age time of 50 months before \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ebeing released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNebbiolo d’Alba DOC\u003c\/strong\u003e is produced between Barolo and Barbaresco. Near the two zones the wines are full-bodied and age very well. Further away, they’re delicate and best drunk young. This wine can also come from grapes from Barola or Barbaresco not quite up to heavenly standards, such as grapes from new vineyards in the famous hills or from less exalted vineyards. Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo and \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emust age for at least 12 months before release. Nebbiolo d’Alba Superiore DOC wines must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 18 months before being released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRoero DOCG i\u003c\/strong\u003es a little known zone just north of Barolo within the Langhe. Roero DOCG wines must be at least 95% Nebbiolo and must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 20 months before release. Roero Riserva DOCG must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 32 months before being released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLanghe Nebbiolo DOC\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003efalls in (is a subset of) one of the largest wine zones in Piedmont, Langhe DOC. \u003c\/span\u003eThe Langhe DOC covers 54 communes of the Langhe and Roero hills. Varietally focused wines can include the name Langhe plus the grape. All told, there are 23 different forms of Langhe wines with Langhe Nebbiolo being just one. Langhe Nebbiolo DOC wines can come from anywhere in the Langhe i.e. from any of the four zones above (Barolo, Barbaresco, Nebbiolo d’Alba or Roero). Langhe Nebbiolo DOC must be at least 85% Nebbiolo and al\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003elow for up to 15% of other indigenous grape varieties, such as \u003c\/span\u003esuch as Barbera and Dolcetto. In practice most are made entirely from Nebbiolo.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: none;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont_Nebbiolo_Serralunga_d_Alba_1024x1024.png?v=1716562793\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont_Nebbiolo_Serralunga_d_Alba_1024x1024.png?v=1716562793\" data-mce-style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSerralunga d'Alba in Piedmont, where the Nebbiolo grape is king\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696167899\" alt=\"Barolo Landscape\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696167899\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo, often referred to as the \"King of Wines\", is a powerful and full-bodied red wine made from Nebbiolo grapes. Barolo is special due to its unique combination of factors – its terroir, the Nebbiolo grape, and its winemaking traditions. The zone's spectacular terroir, a multitude of distinctive microclimates and soil compositions, is ideal for growing Nebbiolo. Furthermore, the centuries-old winemaking traditions add to the allure, resulting in a wine that is complex, full-bodied, and capable of aging gracefully for many years.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Barolo zone (the regulated production area) is a relatively small area in Piemont. It is 11km north to south and just over 8km at its widest point. Barolo comprises 11 different communes around the larger towns in the area - some of the more famous towns or villages are Barolo, Montforte d’Alba, La Morra and Serralunga d’Alba. These communes each have unique geography, soil, climate and altitude. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBarolo largely consists of three chains of hills separated by two north-south valleys, the Central Valley and Serralunga Valley. The communes are dotted up and down the twin valleys and hilly ranges that offer a huge variety of terroir.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 3D flyover of Barola below is worth watching to appreciate the compexity of the topography, the countless number of small hills and the changes that occur in the space of a few metres. However, for anyone wishing to gain a full appreciation of what Barolo looks like in the flesh, \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAlessandro Masnaghetti's\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003ca style=\"color: #808080;\" title=\"Alessandro Masnaghetti's Barolo MGA 360\" href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\"\u003eBarolo MGA 360\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca style=\"color: #808080;\" title=\"Alessandro Masnaghetti's Barolo MGA 360\" href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\"\u003e°\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eprovides a superb digital replica of the landscape.\u003cbr\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/HQmwjRhY-SA\" title=\"Barolo Vineyards in 3D flyover\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/HQmwjRhY-SA\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" alt=\"Barolo Vineyards in 3D flyover\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo3Dflyover_1facdbb5-6f80-4e50-8b28-4084fbf68997_240x240.png?v=1696134906\" data-mce-style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo3Dflyover_1facdbb5-6f80-4e50-8b28-4084fbf68997_240x240.png?v=1696134906\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Click on image to play 3D flyover\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Communes and 'Cru' Vineyards of Barolo\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThere are 11 approved communes in the Barolo production zone. \u003c\/span\u003eOver 87% of Barolo is produced in the original five and largest communes; La Morra, Barolo, Castiglione Falletto, Serralunga d'Alba and Monforte d'Alba.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe remaining six communes are Novello, Verduno, Cherasco, Roddi, Grinzane Cavour and Diano d’Alba (which is planted \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emore to Dolcetto than Nebbiolo). Interestingly, the first two of these are home to two of the most in-demand vineyards in the entire region; Monvigliero in Verduno and Ravera in Novello.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLa Morra and Barolo are the two main communes in the western part of the zone, also known as the Central Valley. The soils are Tortonian - a fertile, compact, calcareous marl that produces graceful wines with more florals and fruit. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Serralunga Valley to the east has Serravalian (also referred to as Helvetian) soils which are heavy in sandstone and sand, producing structured bold wines with high tannins. Within this area you will find the famous communes of Castiglione Falleto, Serralunga d’Alba and Monforte d’Alba.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolloCommunes_600x600_c9ff96db-54e3-47dd-bcea-805b78acc453_600x600.jpg?v=1716186871\" alt=\"Communes of Barolo\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolloCommunes_600x600_c9ff96db-54e3-47dd-bcea-805b78acc453_600x600.jpg?v=1716186871\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommunes of Barolo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo drinkers had become familiar over the years with the most recognizable of the 11 commune names appearing on the labels; Castiglione Falletto and Monforte d'Alba, for example. However, i\u003c\/span\u003en the ‘90s the world rediscovered Barolo, whose wines bore little comparison to the rough wines of the past. Barolo began selling out, prices increased and so did the surface area of vineyards. With new producers came a rise in new labels and new ways to distinguish one from the other. They began personalising their labels with more than just the commune; they used the names of the vineyards, villages, and people. This desire to differentiate quickly got out of control, and as has been the case in many other wine regions, the consumer became confused.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe first priority was to create order, to delineate and define the varying wine-growing areas. To make it official, the Barolo Consorzio, in cooperation with the province of Cuneo and the various Barolo villages, undertook the challenging task of regulating the use of vineyard and zonal names on labels. By 2010, after several years of hard work, they came up with a list of geographical designations that are allowed to appear on the Barolo label. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThese geographical designations or MGA (\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emenzioni geografiche aggiuntive\u003c\/em\u003e or additional geographic designations) refer to specific delimited areas of production and can be seen as the equivalent of the French term cru. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn total, there are 181 geographical designations, of which 11 are communal (one for each commune; e.g. \u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo del Comune di Serralunga d’Alba, Barolo del Comune di La Morra,\u003c\/em\u003e etc.). Wines may be labeled with one of these MGA provided the fruit comes from the stated designation. \u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe MGAs – it’s important to emphasize this – do not imply superiority in a qualitative sense. A Barolo carrying the name of an MGA on the label is not necessarily better or more valuable than a Barolo with another name or even with no name at all, although for many producers Barolo wines with an MGA usually represent the most prestigious wines in their lists.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMost of the 170 MGA refer to a single vineyard such as Cannubi or Brunate, however as there are a number of exceptions, the MGA term cannot technically be defined as a vineyard. Bussia, for example, in the commune of Monforte d'Alba and the second largest MGA at 738 acres, is actually a large hill made up of several vineyards. \u003c\/span\u003eThe name of single-vineyard wines within\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e their eponymous MGA \u003c\/span\u003eare permitted on the label. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePoderi Aldo Conterno, one of Barolo’s greatest producers, makes wines from three separate vineyards situated within the Bussia MGA; Colonello, Cicala and Romirasco.\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/uc?export=download\u0026amp;confirm=no_antivirus\u0026amp;id=1jgpl-l1jvpsy2Y1MQwwiSZmf95R51IaL\" title=\"Barolo MGA or Cru Official Map\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/uc?export=download\u0026amp;confirm=no_antivirus\u0026amp;id=1jgpl-l1jvpsy2Y1MQwwiSZmf95R51IaL\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: none;\" alt=\"Barolo MGA or Cru Map\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/BaroloCrusMap_33a4cb8d-4b17-47ab-b217-9f75dfb93dfe_600x600.png?v=1696144900\" data-mce-style=\"float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/BaroloCrusMap_33a4cb8d-4b17-47ab-b217-9f75dfb93dfe_600x600.png?v=1696144900\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClick map to enlarge 🔍\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA number of the MGA extend across more than one Commune. The Cerequio MGA, for example, is located between the towns of La Morra and Barolo and extends across the boundary of the two communes. It is one of the most prestigious vineyards within the appellation and a truly stunning landscape – it is so revered that it has been nicknamed the \"Riviera of the Langhe.\" Grapes from both sides are of extremely high-quality and become great wines, but acquiring land with the southwestern exposure is considered la crème de la crème of the MGA. Therefore, it is no coincidence that the labels that have made Barolo history are all from here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStrange as it may seem, European laws prevent the use of two or more MGA names together on the label, thus effectively stopping a noble and well-documented tradition of Barolo obtained by blending various vineyards. However, if the MGAs are situated in the same commune, the label may specify \"Barolo del Comune di Barolo\" or \"Barolo del Comune di La Morra\" and so on. Although contradictory, the same law that prevents use of two or more MGAs on the label allows the producer to add up to 15% of Barolo obtained from a second MGA to a Barolo with an MGA stated on the label.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe proper term for a vineyard is \u003cem\u003evigna\u003c\/em\u003e, which can also appear on the label. Two well-known examples are Poderi Oddero Barolo Bussia Vigna Mondoca and Bruno Giacosa Vigna Le Rocche Barolo Falletto. Note that the term vigna does not have to be used as an identifier – Aldo Conterno does not label his separate Barolos with this descriptor.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA brief summary of the most important communes and crus in the Barolo production zone follows.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLa Morra\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-LaMorra_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696147933\" alt=\"La Morra Commune\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-LaMorra_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696147933\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSituated at the northern end of the Central Valley, La Morra ranks first among all the communes as far as most acreage of Nebbiolo planted for production of Barolo as well as number of wineries (62); it is tied with Serralunga d’Alba for most MGA (39). Several of the highest vineyards in the zone are located here at elevations of more than 420m.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLa Morra is known for Barolo with rounder, more gentle tannins and more floral aromatics (especially from the Brunate MGA), as opposed to wines from Serralunga and Monforte d'Alba. The wines from the Rocche dell’Annunziata site are among the most complex, elegant and structured in all the commune.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRocche dell’Annunziata, La Serra, Arborina, Conca, Brunate and Cerequio (these last two are primarily situated in La Morra, with a smaller part of these sites also in the commune of Barolo).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRenato Ratti, Roberto Voerzio, Poderi Oddero, Elio Altare, Fratelli Revello, Marcarini, Mauro Molino, Mauro Veglio, Trediberri, Aurelio Settimo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Barolo_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696148642\" alt=\"Barolo Commune\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Barolo_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696148642\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSituated at the southern end of the Central Valley, t\u003c\/span\u003ehis commune lends its name to the wine produced in the Barolo Zone. The wines here are a mix of styles, with a typical Barolo from here being rich in tannins with a slight austerity. The most famous vineyard here is Cannubi, which contains both Tortonian and Serravalian soils, creating wines of great complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eCannubi, Sarmassa, Bricco delle Viole, Terlo, Liste, Castellero\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eBartolo Mascarello, Marchesi di Barolo, Scarzello, Borgogno, Damilano, Giuseppe Rinaldi, Francesco Rinaldi, Giacamo Brezza, Luciano Sandrone\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMonforte d'Alba\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Monforted_Alba_Barolo_52bdc4ed-ac7b-4dfb-b7e3-124cbc5d2daa_1024x1024.png?v=1696165973\" alt=\"Monforte d'Alba\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Monforted_Alba_Barolo_52bdc4ed-ac7b-4dfb-b7e3-124cbc5d2daa_1024x1024.png?v=1696165973\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSituated at the far southeastern reaches of the zone, Monforte d’Alba is home to long-aging, powerful examples of Barolo. There are only 11 MGA, but 53 wineries here; one reason for this is the large number of producers that make a Bussia Barolo. The wines here are generally quite ripe, and while numerous producers take a modern approach in the cellar (e.g. Domenico Clerico), there are some such as Elio Grasso that specialize in more traditional examples of Barolo, with their Ginestra Casa Maté and Gavarini Chiniera Barolos.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eGinestra, Bussia, Mosconi, Castelletto, Le Coste di Monforte\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eElio Grasso, Domenico Clerico, Poderi Aldo Conterno, Giovanni Manzone, Josetta Saffirio, Giacomo Conterno, Giacomo Fenocchio, Amalia Cascina in Langa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSerralunga d’Alba \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Serralungad_Alba_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155302\" alt=\"Serralunga d’Alba commune\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Serralungad_Alba_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155302\"\u003eSituated north of Monforte d’Alba, Serralunga d’Alba marks the eastern border of the Barolo zone. If a classic syle of Barolo combines deep structure and longevity, then the Barolos of Serralunga are certainly among the most classic. These wines require time, but offers great rewards at their peak. Yet, you can find very approachable examples of Barolo from here; the offerings of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eBarolo Comune di Serralunga d’Alba\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eare often quite open upon release, displaying the rich fruit and tannins of Serralunga in a more refined manner. These are among the best values of the entire Barolo zone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs much as any commune, Serralunga is known for its remarkable assortment of vineyards, including Lazzarito, Vignarionda, Falletto of Bruno Giacosa, and Francia, the source of the celebrated Monfortino Barolo of Giacomo Conterno.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eFalletto, Francia, Lazzarito, Vignarionda, Margheria, Cerretta, Prapò, Parafada\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eFontanafredda, Ettore Germano, Paolo Manzone, Giovanni Rosso, Schiavenza, Palladino, Luigi Pira\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCastiglione Falletto\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Castiglione Falletto\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-CastiglioneFalletto_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155789\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-CastiglioneFalletto_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155789\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe commune of Castiglione Falletto is located to the west of Serralunga d’Alba, north of Monforte d’Alba and east of La Morra. The soils here are mixed with a good percentage of sand, resulting in wines that are often more fragrant and less tannic than those from Serralunga and Monforte. A typical Castiglione Falletto Barolo displays red cherry and starwberry fruit aromas and flavors along with distinct red spice notes. Rocche di Castiglione is arguably the best known site here, along with Villero (the source of Vietti\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eriserva\u003c\/em\u003e), Bricco Rocche of Ceretto, and Monprivato, this last made famous by Giuseppe Mascarello.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRocche di Castiglione, Bricco Rocche, Villero, Bricco Boschis, Parussi, Fiasco, Pernanno, Monprivato, Montanello\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eVietti, Paolo Scavino, Cavallotto, Monchiero Fratelli, Giovanni Sordo, Livia Fontanai\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVerduno\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Verduno Commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Verduno_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696156532\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Verduno_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696156532\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVerduno represents the far northwest reaches of the Barolo zone, and is known for wines that combine excellent ripeness with subtle spice, generally with mid-weight tannins. Clearly Verduno is most famous for the Monvigliero vineyard, situated just east of the town of Verduno, ranging from 220-310m above sea level. While most of this commune’s producers make a Monvigliero Barolo, recently many vintners throughout the Barolo zone have also added a Barolo from this vineyard - this includes Paolo Scavino, Giovanni Sordo and Terre del Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eMonvigliero, San Lorenzo di Verduno, Boscatto, Massara\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eBurlotto, Fratelli Alessandria, Bel Colle, Castello di Verduno\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNovello\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Novello Commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-NovelloBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696157519\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-NovelloBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696157519\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe commune of Novello is located at the far southwestern corner of the Barolo zone and has one of the coolest climates of any commune, thanks to the winds from the Cottian Alps to the south. The wines of Novello were among the most unrelenting years ago, but because of climate change, a typical Barolo from Novello is now riper and much more elegant. Clearly the interest in this commune over the past decade can be traced to the work of Valter Fissore and his wife Nadia, at their Elvio Cogno estate, with wines from the Ravera vineyard. Recently several renowned producers such as Vietti and Paolo Scavino have also released a Ravera Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRavera, Sottocastello di Novello, Cerviano-Merli, Panerole, Corini-Palaretta\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eElvio Cogno, Ca’Viola, Le Strette, Marenco\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBricco San Pietro\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Podere_Ruggeri_Corsini_Vineyard_1024x1024.png?v=1716874491\" alt=\"Podere Ruggeri Corsini\" style=\"float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Podere_Ruggeri_Corsini_Vineyard_1024x1024.png?v=1716874491\" data-mce-style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Ruggeri Corsini estate in Bricco San Pietro\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eBricco San Pietro is a large MGA (cru) located in the western part of the Commune of Monforte d’Alba. With almost 170 hectares of vineyard surface, Bricco San Pietro is the second largest cru in the commune of Monforte d’Alba, preceded only by Bussia. Bricco San Pietro is a high altitude cru, ranging in height from 250 to 520 meters above sea level.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eFrom the geological point of view, the soil of Bricco San Pietro, like Bussia, is mainly formed by the Marne of Sant’Agata Fossili of sandy type, a very ancient formation dating back to 10 million years ago and easily recognizable in the typical yellow-gray soil. The Marne, characteristic of the Langhe, is a soft rock mainly composed of silt and clay and, in lower parts, of sand and calcium carbonate. On the summit of the ridge of Bricco San Pietro, we find instead the Diano Sandstones. They consist of deposits from coastal areas formed 10 million years ago and are rich in fossil sediments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eCorsini's holdings in San Pietro and Bussia are its prized parcels. They face one another in the little valley that falls steeply off the hill of Montforte d'Alba and runs north-northwest. The soils are fundamentally the same, although San Pietro has a bit more sand and because of its steeper incline, less depth. The differences lie in incline, San Pietro is quite steep compared to Bussia's gentler slope, \u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\" data-mce-style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand expositions, San Pietro is mostly east-facing while Bussia looks west-southwest.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe vines in San Pietro were planted in 1997 and total just over three acres. This is the traditional Barolo, aged for 30 months in large used Slavonian oak casks (the forests are in Croatia) known as \u003ci\u003ebotte\u003c\/i\u003e in Italian (\u003ci\u003efoudre\u003c\/i\u003e in French). The site's thinner soils and eastern exposition make for an elegant, transparent wine, and you often get a chalky lift from the calcareous soils. Roughly 500 cases are produced annually.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: none;\" alt=\"Bricco San Pietro Map\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Podere_Ruggeri_Corsini_-_Bricco_San_Pietro_Map_1024x1024.png?v=1716875385\" data-mce-style=\"float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Podere_Ruggeri_Corsini_-_Bricco_San_Pietro_Map_1024x1024.png?v=1716875385\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBricco San Pietro cru in Monforte d'Alba\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe winery\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Podere_Ruggeri_Corsini_Family_1024x1024.png?v=1716795545\" alt=\"Podere Ruggeri Corsini: Loredana Addari and Nicola Argamante and their two daughters Francesca and Vittoria\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Podere_Ruggeri_Corsini_Family_1024x1024.png?v=1716795545\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA family winery run by Loredana Addari and Nicola Argamante and their two daughters Francesca and Vittoria\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe Ruggeri Corsini estate was founded in 1995 by Loredana Addari and Nicola Argamante who share a love of the countryside, a passion for great wines and a commitment to quality. Loredana has a post-graduate degree in viticulture and Nicola a PhD in vine disease and ampelography.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eNicola, of Russian descent, was born in Tuscany and raised in Piedmont.\u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\" data-mce-style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eWhile at the University of Turin he met Loredana, a lithe woman from Sardinia with jet-black hair, a fine Roman nose and a mesmerizing accent, and they fell in love.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIn the early 1990s Nicola was consulting for various producers in the Langhe while fulfilling his degree requirements when he stumbled upon the hamlet of Corsini, a couple of houses and farm buildings surrounded by vines, which lies in a little valley just north of the village of Monforte d’Alba. He took Loredana there and in 1995 they got married, bought the hamlet and started their life together.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe estate takes its name Ruggeri Corsini from 'Ruggeri', the surname of Nicola's mother, who contributed financially to the launch of the winery, and from 'Corsini', the name of the hamlet. Corsini is a family-run winery; Nicola spends most of his time in the cellar while Loredana tends the vines, and their two daughters, Vittoria and Francesca, are also involved in the business.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: right;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: right;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-top: 50px; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: 30px; float: right;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Podere_Ruggeri_Corsini_Map_new_480x480.jpg?v=1716945351\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eCorsini has 25 acres of vineyards divided among 24 parcels and averages aroundr 6,000 cases of wine each year. Barbera is the mainstay of the farm, representing 40-45% of production. A reserve Barbera, based on 4.4 acres of vines planted in 1947 and 1959, is made in good years. Langhe Rosata is produced from a one-acre parcel of Nebbiolo planted in 2002. Barolos come from prized parcels of just under 3 acres planted in 1959 in the cru of Bussia and just over 3 acres planted in 1997 in Bricco San Pietro. The estate's Langhe Nebbiolo is 100% Nebbiolo entirely from the declared vintage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe winery and vineyards are managed in a way to minimise the impact on the environment. The lightest traditional bottle is used to reduce the carbon footprint, solar panels provide most of the power for heating and lighting in the winery, and cellar wastewater is purified on site using a natural procedure called phytopurification. The vineyards are managed in an eco-sustainable way certified in compliance with European laws. Synthetic applications are only used to fight mildew diseases and are based on copper and sulphur. Minimal SO2 is added to the wine and the red wines are not normally fined or filtered.\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42896882204913,"sku":"","price":110.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Podere-Ruggeri-Corsini-Bricco-San-Pietro-Barolo-DOCG-2012.jpg?v=1698020527"},{"product_id":"bel-colle-monvigliero-barolo-docg-2019","title":"Bel Colle Monvigliero, Barolo DOCG 2019","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eCantina Bel Colle is located a few minutes out of Verduno in a spectacular panoramic position on the hills of Langhe. The winery cultivates 10 hectares of vineyards across Barolo, Roero, Barbaresco, the Langhe Hills and the area around Asti. Bel Colle's vineyards include three prestigious crus (MGAs); Monvigliero and Bussia in Barolo and Pajorè in Barbaresco.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Monvigliero would be, maybe, in my top 10 crus in Barolo. It’s specific, and now highly prized, which is as it should be. It’s medium to full-bodied, fresh and gently sappy, crushed rock tannin, red fruit, dark cherry and quite some mouth-perfume, but also dense and concentrated, despite its vivacity. The finish is tight, long and focussed, with dusty tannin grip, new leather and quiet succulence. Very good. Very.\"  Gary Walsh \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Belle Colle Story\" href=\"https:\/\/www.belcolle.it\/wp-content\/themes\/barriotheme\/video\/video.mp4\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.belcolle.it\/wp-content\/themes\/barriotheme\/video\/video.mp4\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giovanni_Rosso_story_18059c25-9351-4ec9-a0ef-270e21b82a99_480x480.png?v=1716644987\" alt=\"Belle Colle Story\" style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" data-mce-style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Giovanni_Rosso_story_18059c25-9351-4ec9-a0ef-270e21b82a99_480x480.png?v=1716644987\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\"Monvigliero would be, maybe, in my top 10 crus in Barolo. It’s specific, and now highly prized, which is as it should be. Perfumed, but earthy and ferrous, dark cherry, mint, leaning towards liquorice, with a fair bit of spice. It’s medium to full-bodied, fresh and gently sappy, crushed rock tannin, red fruit, dark cherry and quite some mouth-perfume, but also dense and concentrated, despite its vivacity. There’s some sage and mint, and the finish is tight, long and focussed, with dusty tannin grip, new leather and quiet succulence. Very good. Very. Drink: 2025 - 2036+.\"  \u003cb\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front - 95 points\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\"Ruby red. A fragrant bouquet emanates from the glass of violets and iris, dark cherry and blueberry fruit, brick dust and a hint of rusty nail. In the mouth the wine is concentrated and focussed, tautly structured with the fruit supported by a quite formidable layer of ripe tannin before drawing to a lengthy conclusion. There is density and depth here, an excellent if robust iteration of Monvigliero. Drink 2028 to 2048.\"\u003cb\u003e  Stephen Blandford, The Real Review - 95 points\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePiedmont Nebbiolo\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Nebbiolo_Grape.png?v=1716280198\" alt=\"\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Nebbiolo_Grape.png?v=1716280198\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Piedmont wine region is located in the north-west corner of Italy. The name Piemonte means \"at the foot of the mountains\", the mountains in this case being the Alps. Piedmont is just Italy’s seventh largest wine region, but what it lacks in quantity it makes up for in quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePiedmont is famous for its Nebbiolo wines. Nebbiolo, the most exalted wine variety of Piedmont, gets its name from the Italian word for 'fog', \u003cem\u003enebbia\u003c\/em\u003e. During harvest, which generally takes place late in October, a deep, intense fog sets into the Langhe region where the Nebbiolo vineyards are located. The Nebbiolo heartland is the tiny Barolo production zone, a cluster of fog-prone hills around the village of the same name.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNebbiolo is early-budding, but also late-ripening. It needs good weather and lots of sunlight to achieve full ripeness, which is why the best vineyards for growing Nebbiolo are located on hillsides that are exposed to plenty of sunlight. Hence the suitability of the slopes of the Langhe hills near the town of Alba. Nebbiolo is only planted on the hills at an altitude above 250m, as fog hangs over lower vineyards for large parts of the day and there is no chance of making decent wine from this late-ripening variety if it is not exposed to maximum sunshine. The lower vineyards are generally planted with Barbera or Dolcetto.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSoil types also play a crucial role. Nebbiolo thrives on calcareous marl, a lime-rich mudstone that is found on the right bank of the Tanaro River, home to the famous appellations Barolo and Barbaresco. Nebbiolo grapes grown on other soil types tend to make wines that are not as aromatic and elegant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNebbiolo produces a full-bodied wine with high levels of acidity and tannin, particularly when it is young - at odds with its light colour. It also has great aging potential – particularly the Barbaresco and Barolo wines that garner the highest price tags.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two highest classifications of wines produced from Nebbiolo in Piedmont are the DOCG denomination \u003cem\u003eDenominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita\u003c\/em\u003e (Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin) and the DOC denomination \u003cem\u003eDenominazione d'Origine Controllata\u003c\/em\u003e (Denomination of Controlled Origin).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn total, there are seventeen DOCG and DOC wines made in Piedmont. The five applicable to Nebbiolo are Barolo DOCG, Barbaresco DOCG and Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC (which must be made from 100% Nebbiolo) and Roero DOCG and Langhe Nebbiolo DOC (which must be made from at least 85% Nebbiolo).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/LangheMap_0ced5874-ccd1-4704-8851-8597023cfb1c_600x600.jpg?v=1696556901\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/LangheMap_0ced5874-ccd1-4704-8851-8597023cfb1c_600x600.jpg?v=1696556901\" data-mce-style=\"margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDOCG and DOC Nebbiolo production zones in Piedmont\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo DOCG\u003c\/strong\u003e is perhaps the most famous Nebbiolo wine. Its name derives from the small town in the heart of the Barolo production zone, but it is produced in eleven communes around the larger hillside towns in the area. Barolo DOCG wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo and must age in oak for at least 18 months with a total age time of 38 months before release. Barolo Riserva DOCG must \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eage in oak for at least 18 months with a total age time of 62 months before \u003c\/span\u003ebeing released.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarbaresco DOCG\u003c\/strong\u003e is often described as more elegant than the more powerful Barolo, the 'queen' to Barolo’s 'king'. Barbaresco DOCG wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo. The production zone is tiny, a third of the size of Barolo, and has less stringent regulations. Barbaresco DOCG wines must age in oak for at least 9 months with a total age time of 26 months before release. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarbaresco Riserva DOCG must \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eage in oak for at least 9 months with a total age time of 50 months before \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ebeing released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNebbiolo d’Alba DOC\u003c\/strong\u003e is produced between Barolo and Barbaresco. Near the two zones the wines are full-bodied and age very well. Further away, they’re delicate and best drunk young. This wine can also come from grapes from Barola or Barbaresco not quite up to heavenly standards, such as grapes from new vineyards in the famous hills or from less exalted vineyards. Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo and \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emust age for at least 12 months before release. Nebbiolo d’Alba Superiore DOC wines must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 18 months before being released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRoero DOCG i\u003c\/strong\u003es a little known zone just north of Barolo within the Langhe. Roero DOCG wines must be at least 95% Nebbiolo and must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 20 months before release. Roero Riserva DOCG must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 32 months before being released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLanghe Nebbiolo DOC\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003efalls in (is a subset of) one of the largest wine zones in Piedmont, Langhe DOC. \u003c\/span\u003eThe Langhe DOC covers 54 communes of the Langhe and Roero hills. Varietally focused wines can include the name Langhe plus the grape. All told, there are 23 different forms of Langhe wines with Langhe Nebbiolo being just one. Langhe Nebbiolo DOC wines can come from anywhere in the Langhe i.e. from any of the four zones above (Barolo, Barbaresco, Nebbiolo d’Alba or Roero). Langhe Nebbiolo DOC must be at least 85% Nebbiolo and al\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003elow for up to 15% of other indigenous grape varieties, such as \u003c\/span\u003esuch as Barbera and Dolcetto. In practice most are made entirely from Nebbiolo.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: none;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont_Nebbiolo_Serralunga_d_Alba_1024x1024.png?v=1716562793\" data-mce-style=\"float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont_Nebbiolo_Serralunga_d_Alba_1024x1024.png?v=1716562793\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSerralunga d'Alba in Piedmont, where the Nebbiolo grape is king\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696167899\" alt=\"Barolo Landscape\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696167899\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo, often referred to as the \"King of Wines\", is a powerful and full-bodied red wine made from Nebbiolo grapes. Barolo is special due to its unique combination of factors – its terroir, the Nebbiolo grape, and its winemaking traditions. The zone's spectacular terroir, a multitude of distinctive microclimates and soil compositions, is ideal for growing Nebbiolo. Furthermore, the centuries-old winemaking traditions add to the allure, resulting in a wine that is complex, full-bodied, and capable of aging gracefully for many years.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Barolo zone (the regulated production area) is a relatively small area in Piemont. It is 11km north to south and just over 8km at its widest point. Barolo comprises 11 different communes around the larger towns in the area - some of the more famous towns or villages are Barolo, Montforte d’Alba, La Morra and Serralunga d’Alba. These communes each have unique geography, soil, climate and altitude. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBarolo largely consists of three chains of hills separated by two north-south valleys, the Central Valley and Serralunga Valley. The communes are dotted up and down the twin valleys and hilly ranges that offer a huge variety of terroir.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 3D flyover of Barola below is worth watching to appreciate the compexity of the topography, the countless number of small hills and the changes that occur in the space of a few metres. However, for anyone wishing to gain a full appreciation of what Barolo looks like in the flesh, \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAlessandro Masnaghetti's\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" title=\"Alessandro Masnaghetti's Barolo MGA 360\" style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBarolo MGA 360\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" title=\"Alessandro Masnaghetti's Barolo MGA 360\" style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e°\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eprovides a superb digital replica of the landscape.\u003cbr\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003ca title=\"Barolo Vineyards in 3D flyover\" href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/HQmwjRhY-SA\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/HQmwjRhY-SA\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo3Dflyover_1facdbb5-6f80-4e50-8b28-4084fbf68997_240x240.png?v=1696134906\" alt=\"Barolo Vineyards in 3D flyover\" style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo3Dflyover_1facdbb5-6f80-4e50-8b28-4084fbf68997_240x240.png?v=1696134906\" data-mce-style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Click on image to play 3D flyover\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Communes and 'Cru' Vineyards of Barolo\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThere are 11 approved communes in the Barolo production zone. \u003c\/span\u003eOver 87% of Barolo is produced in the original five and largest communes; La Morra, Barolo, Castiglione Falletto, Serralunga d'Alba and Monforte d'Alba.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe remaining six communes are Novello, Verduno, Cherasco, Roddi, Grinzane Cavour and Diano d’Alba (which is planted \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emore to Dolcetto than Nebbiolo). Interestingly, the first two of these are home to two of the most in-demand vineyards in the entire region; Monvigliero in Verduno and Ravera in Novello.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLa Morra and Barolo are the two main communes in the western part of the zone, also known as the Central Valley. The soils are Tortonian - a fertile, compact, calcareous marl that produces graceful wines with more florals and fruit. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Serralunga Valley to the east has Serravalian (also referred to as Helvetian) soils which are heavy in sandstone and sand, producing structured bold wines with high tannins. Within this area you will find the famous communes of Castiglione Falleto, Serralunga d’Alba and Monforte d’Alba.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Communes of Barolo\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolloCommunes_600x600_c9ff96db-54e3-47dd-bcea-805b78acc453_600x600.jpg?v=1716186871\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolloCommunes_600x600_c9ff96db-54e3-47dd-bcea-805b78acc453_600x600.jpg?v=1716186871\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommunes of Barolo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo drinkers had become familiar over the years with the most recognizable of the 11 commune names appearing on the labels; Castiglione Falletto and Monforte d'Alba, for example. However, i\u003c\/span\u003en the ‘90s the world rediscovered Barolo, whose wines bore little comparison to the rough wines of the past. Barolo began selling out, prices increased and so did the surface area of vineyards. With new producers came a rise in new labels and new ways to distinguish one from the other. They began personalising their labels with more than just the commune; they used the names of the vineyards, villages, and people. This desire to differentiate quickly got out of control, and as has been the case in many other wine regions, the consumer became confused.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe first priority was to create order, to delineate and define the varying wine-growing areas. To make it official, the Barolo Consorzio, in cooperation with the province of Cuneo and the various Barolo villages, undertook the challenging task of regulating the use of vineyard and zonal names on labels. By 2010, after several years of hard work, they came up with a list of geographical designations that are allowed to appear on the Barolo label. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThese geographical designations or MGA (\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emenzioni geografiche aggiuntive\u003c\/em\u003e or additional geographic designations) refer to specific delimited areas of production and can be seen as the equivalent of the French term cru. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn total, there are 181 geographical designations, of which 11 are communal (one for each commune; e.g. \u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo del Comune di Serralunga d’Alba, Barolo del Comune di La Morra,\u003c\/em\u003e etc.). Wines may be labeled with one of these MGA provided the fruit comes from the stated designation. \u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe MGAs – it’s important to emphasize this – do not imply superiority in a qualitative sense. A Barolo carrying the name of an MGA on the label is not necessarily better or more valuable than a Barolo with another name or even with no name at all, although for many producers Barolo wines with an MGA usually represent the most prestigious wines in their lists.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMost of the 170 MGA refer to a single vineyard such as Cannubi or Brunate, however as there are a number of exceptions, the MGA term cannot technically be defined as a vineyard. Bussia, for example, in the commune of Monforte d'Alba and the second largest MGA at 738 acres, is actually a large hill made up of several vineyards. \u003c\/span\u003eThe name of single-vineyard wines within\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e their eponymous MGA \u003c\/span\u003eare permitted on the label. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePoderi Aldo Conterno, one of Barolo’s greatest producers, makes wines from three separate vineyards situated within the Bussia MGA; Colonello, Cicala and Romirasco.\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ca title=\"Barolo MGA or Cru Official Map\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/uc?export=download\u0026amp;confirm=no_antivirus\u0026amp;id=1jgpl-l1jvpsy2Y1MQwwiSZmf95R51IaL\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/uc?export=download\u0026amp;confirm=no_antivirus\u0026amp;id=1jgpl-l1jvpsy2Y1MQwwiSZmf95R51IaL\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/BaroloCrusMap_33a4cb8d-4b17-47ab-b217-9f75dfb93dfe_600x600.png?v=1696144900\" alt=\"Barolo MGA or Cru Map\" style=\"float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/BaroloCrusMap_33a4cb8d-4b17-47ab-b217-9f75dfb93dfe_600x600.png?v=1696144900\" data-mce-style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClick map to enlarge 🔍\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA number of the MGA extend across more than one Commune. The Cerequio MGA, for example, is located between the towns of La Morra and Barolo and extends across the boundary of the two communes. It is one of the most prestigious vineyards within the appellation and a truly stunning landscape – it is so revered that it has been nicknamed the \"Riviera of the Langhe.\" Grapes from both sides are of extremely high-quality and become great wines, but acquiring land with the southwestern exposure is considered la crème de la crème of the MGA. Therefore, it is no coincidence that the labels that have made Barolo history are all from here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStrange as it may seem, European laws prevent the use of two or more MGA names together on the label, thus effectively stopping a noble and well-documented tradition of Barolo obtained by blending various vineyards. However, if the MGAs are situated in the same commune, the label may specify \"Barolo del Comune di Barolo\" or \"Barolo del Comune di La Morra\" and so on. Although contradictory, the same law that prevents use of two or more MGAs on the label allows the producer to add up to 15% of Barolo obtained from a second MGA to a Barolo with an MGA stated on the label.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe proper term for a vineyard is \u003cem\u003evigna\u003c\/em\u003e, which can also appear on the label. Two well-known examples are Poderi Oddero Barolo Bussia Vigna Mondoca and Bruno Giacosa Vigna Le Rocche Barolo Falletto. Note that the term vigna does not have to be used as an identifier – Aldo Conterno does not label his separate Barolos with this descriptor.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA brief summary of the most important communes and crus in the Barolo production zone follows.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLa Morra\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"La Morra Commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-LaMorra_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696147933\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-LaMorra_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696147933\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSituated at the northern end of the Central Valley, La Morra ranks first among all the communes as far as most acreage of Nebbiolo planted for production of Barolo as well as number of wineries (62); it is tied with Serralunga d’Alba for most MGA (39). Several of the highest vineyards in the zone are located here at elevations of more than 420m.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLa Morra is known for Barolo with rounder, more gentle tannins and more floral aromatics (especially from the Brunate MGA), as opposed to wines from Serralunga and Monforte d'Alba. The wines from the Rocche dell’Annunziata site are among the most complex, elegant and structured in all the commune.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRocche dell’Annunziata, La Serra, Arborina, Conca, Brunate and Cerequio (these last two are primarily situated in La Morra, with a smaller part of these sites also in the commune of Barolo).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRenato Ratti, Roberto Voerzio, Poderi Oddero, Elio Altare, Fratelli Revello, Marcarini, Mauro Molino, Mauro Veglio, Trediberri, Aurelio Settimo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Barolo Commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Barolo_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696148642\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Barolo_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696148642\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSituated at the southern end of the Central Valley, t\u003c\/span\u003ehis commune lends its name to the wine produced in the Barolo Zone. The wines here are a mix of styles, with a typical Barolo from here being rich in tannins with a slight austerity. The most famous vineyard here is Cannubi, which contains both Tortonian and Serravalian soils, creating wines of great complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eCannubi, Sarmassa, Bricco delle Viole, Terlo, Liste, Castellero\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eBartolo Mascarello, Marchesi di Barolo, Scarzello, Borgogno, Damilano, Giuseppe Rinaldi, Francesco Rinaldi, Giacamo Brezza, Luciano Sandrone\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMonforte d'Alba\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Monforte d'Alba\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Monforted_Alba_Barolo_52bdc4ed-ac7b-4dfb-b7e3-124cbc5d2daa_1024x1024.png?v=1696165973\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Monforted_Alba_Barolo_52bdc4ed-ac7b-4dfb-b7e3-124cbc5d2daa_1024x1024.png?v=1696165973\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSituated at the far southeastern reaches of the zone, Monforte d’Alba is home to long-aging, powerful examples of Barolo. There are only 11 MGA, but 53 wineries here; one reason for this is the large number of producers that make a Bussia Barolo. The wines here are generally quite ripe, and while there are numerous producers that take a modern approach in the cellar (e.g. Domenico Clerico), there are some such as Elio Grasso that specialize in more traditional examples of Barolo, with their Ginestra Casa Maté and Gavarini Chiniera Barolos.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eGinestra, Bussia, Mosconi, Castelletto, Le Coste di Monforte\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eElio Grasso, Domenico Clerico, Poderi Aldo Conterno, Giovanni Manzone, Josetta Saffirio, Giacomo Conterno, Giacomo Fenocchio, Amalia Cascina in Langa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSerralunga d’Alba \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Serralunga d’Alba commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Serralungad_Alba_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155302\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Serralungad_Alba_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155302\"\u003eSituated north of Monforte d’Alba, Serralunga d’Alba marks the eastern border of the Barolo zone. If a classic syle of Barolo combines deep structure and longevity, then the Barolos of Serralunga are certainly among the most classic. These wines require time, but offers great rewards at their peak. Yet, you can find very approachable examples of Barolo from here; the offerings of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eBarolo Comune di Serralunga d’Alba\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eare often quite open upon release, displaying the rich fruit and tannins of Serralunga in a more refined manner. These are among the best values of the entire Barolo zone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs much as any commune, Serralunga is known for its remarkable assortment of vineyards, including Lazzarito, Vignarionda, Falletto of Bruno Giacosa, and Francia, the source of the celebrated Monfortino Barolo of Giacomo Conterno.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eFalletto, Francia, Lazzarito, Vignarionda, Margheria, Cerretta, Prapò, Parafada\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eFontanafredda, Ettore Germano, Paolo Manzone, Giovanni Rosso, Schiavenza, Palladino, Luigi Pira\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCastiglione Falletto\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-CastiglioneFalletto_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155789\" alt=\"Castiglione Falletto\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-CastiglioneFalletto_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155789\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe commune of Castiglione Falletto is located to the west of Serralunga d’Alba, north of Monforte d’Alba and east of La Morra. The soils here are mixed with a good percentage of sand, resulting in wines that are often more fragrant and less tannic than those from Serralunga and Monforte. A typical Castiglione Falletto Barolo displays red cherry and starwberry fruit aromas and flavors along with distinct red spice notes. Rocche di Castiglione is arguably the best known site here, along with Villero (the source of Vietti\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eriserva\u003c\/em\u003e), Bricco Rocche of Ceretto, and Monprivato, this last made famous by Giuseppe Mascarello.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRocche di Castiglione, Bricco Rocche, Villero, Bricco Boschis, Parussi, Fiasco, Pernanno, Monprivato, Montanello\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eVietti, Paolo Scavino, Cavallotto, Monchiero Fratelli, Giovanni Sordo, Livia Fontanai\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVerduno\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Verduno_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696156532\" alt=\"Verduno Commune\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Verduno_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696156532\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVerduno represents the far northwest reaches of the Barolo zone, and is known for wines that combine excellent ripeness with subtle spice, generally with mid-weight tannins. Clearly Verduno is most famous for the Monvigliero vineyard, situated just east of the town of Verduno, ranging from 220-310m above sea level. While most of this commune’s producers make a Monvigliero Barolo, recently many vintners throughout the Barolo zone have also added a Barolo from this vineyard - this includes Paolo Scavino, Giovanni Sordo and Terre del Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eMonvigliero, San Lorenzo di Verduno, Boscatto, Massara\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eBurlotto, Fratelli Alessandria, Bel Colle, Castello di Verduno\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNovello\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-NovelloBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696157519\" alt=\"Novello Commune\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-NovelloBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696157519\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe commune of Novello is located at the far southwestern corner of the Barolo zone and has one of the coolest climates of any commune, thanks to the winds from the Cottian Alps to the south. The wines of Novello were among the most unrelenting years ago, but because of climate change, a typical Barolo from Novello is now riper and much more elegant. Clearly the interest in this commune over the past decade can be traced to the work of Valter Fissore and his wife Nadia, at their Elvio Cogno estate, with wines from the Ravera vineyard. Recently several renowned producers such as Vietti and Paolo Scavino have also released a Ravera Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRavera, Sottocastello di Novello, Cerviano-Merli, Panerole, Corini-Palaretta\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eElvio Cogno, Ca’Viola, Le Strette, Marenco\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMonvigliero\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAn MGA of Barolo, Monvigliero has always been considered the \"Grand Cru\" of the commune of Verduno, as well as one of the most prestigious vineyards of the entire Barolo zone. The vineyard is considered to be one of the most feminine in the appellation and the Barolos from here are prized for their finesse and elegance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eVerduno is the northernmost of the Barolo communes and as shown in the map below, Monvigliero is one of its most northern vineyards. The vineyard is a natural amphitheatre facing south to southwest and has access to the sun's rays all day, and this, together with the dry climate and white soils, provides ample summer warmth. The River Tanaro runs through the commune and just to the north of the Monvigliero vineyard and the heat generated during the day is mitigated by a cooling breeze that flows along the river valley at night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe soil is primarily light-colored limestone mixed with chalky veins. According to Fabio Alessandria of Comm. G. B. Butlotto, the soil is traditional Sant'Agata marls with a mix of 40% silt, 30% limestone, and 30% sand. These white limestone soils drain well and ally with the micro-climate to give considerable finesse to the wines.\u003cbr style=\"mso-special-character: line-break;\"\u003e\u003c!--[endif]--\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe portion of the vineyard owned by Bel Colle is 1.35 hectares in size and has a southern exposure. The vines are on average 25 years old and are planted at a density of about 5,000 plants per hectare. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Monvigliero Cru map\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Bel_Colle_Monvigliero_600x600.jpg?v=1717459288\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMonvigliero MGA in the Commune of Verduno\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe winery\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Bel_Colle_Family_1024x1024.png?v=1716683684\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Bel_Colle_Family_1024x1024.png?v=1716683684\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" class=\"MsoNormal\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Bosio family, owners of Bel Colle: Valentina, Valter, Rosella and Luca (left to right)\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eCantina Bel Colle is located in the small village of Borgo Castagni, a few minutes out of Verduno on the road to La Morra, in a spectacular panoramic position on the hills of Langhe. This is one of the most fascinating areas of Piedmont, characterized by undulating hills planted with vineyards that are tinged with the warmest colours in autumn, forests and ancient villages.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eBel Colle was established in 1978 by Giuseppe Priola and brothers Franco and Carlo Pontiglione, who chose to invest in Verduno, which at that time was a peripheral territory. It was a far-sighted choice, as under the leadership of enlightened oenologist Paolo Torchio from 1980 to 2015, Bel Colle became one of the most important wineries in Verduno and the first producer of Verduno Pelaverga.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIn the 1990s, Bel Colle chose to invest in the native red grape varieties of the Langhe: Nebbiolo, Barbera and Dolcetto. In addition, Bel Colle also gave space to the native white grape varieties: Arneis, Roero’s princely variety, Nascetta, a rare indigenous variety of Novello and Favorita. Belle Colle under Paolo Torchio was renowned for producing clean, highly elegant wines with finesse and an austere femininity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eBel Colle was acquired by Valter and Rossella Bosio in 2015. The Bosio family, originally from Santo Stefano Belbo, has been producing wine for four generations since they planted their first vineyard in Valdivilla. Today it is Valter and Rosella, together with their son Luca and his wife Valentina, who run the company (refer to photo above). The winery is led by Luca Bosio and fellow oenologist Mario Albrito. Luca, the fourth generation of the family, has the courage to take new paths and expand the vineyards. On the other hand, Mario, a Langhe wine veteran of over 40 years, brings all his experience in the area to the table. Together they make a formidable team. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe winery cultivates 10 hectares of vineyards across Barolo, Roero, Barbaresco, the Langhe Hills and the area around Asti. Winemaker Luca Bosio practises sustainable viticulture and abstains from the use of any synthetic treatments, with all vineyards prepared organically and worked by hand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eBel Colle's vineyards include two of the most prestigious Geographical Mentions (MGAs) in Barolo, Monvigliero in the Commune of Verduno and Bussia in the commune of Monforte d’Alba - which produce Barolo DOCG Monvigliero and Barolo DOCG Bussia respectively. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIn the hills of Barbaresco, Bel Colle has vineyards in Pajorè MGA in the Commune of Treiso and the Gallina MGA in the Commune of Neive – which produce Barbaresco DOCG Pajorè and Barbaresco DOCG Gallina respectively.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eBelle Colle is the largest producer in Piedmont of Verduno Pelaverga DOC, a wine that rose to cult status in the mid-2010s. Made from the rare Pelaverga Piccolo grape, the Verduno Pelaverga production area is confined to just over thirty hectares - slightly more than 25 are in Verduno, 4 hectares are in Roddi and 1.6 hectares are in La Morra. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe Alba area produces Langhe Nebbiolo DOC, Barbera d’Alba DOC and Dolcetto d’Alba DOC, the hills of Roero produce Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC, and the hills of Bionzo produce Barbera d’Asti DOCG.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eFor the white wines, the vineyard of Turna Lunga in Santo Stefano Belbo produces Moscato d’Asti DOCG Turna Lunga, the hills of Roero produce Roero Arneis DOCG, the Commune of Novello produces Langhe Nascetta DOC and the hills of Langhe and Roero produce Langhe DOC Favorita.\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(0, 0, 0);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Vineyards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Bel_Colle_Vineyard_1024x1024.png?v=1716726460\" alt=\"Bel Colle Vineyard\" style=\"float: none;\" data-mce-style=\"float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Bel_Colle_Vineyard_1024x1024.png?v=1716726460\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBel Colle cultivates 10 hectares of vineyards across Barolo, Roero, Barbaresco, the Langhe Hills and the area around Asti. Winemaker Luca Bosio practices sustainable viticulture and abstains from the use of any synthetic treatments, with all vineyards prepared organically and worked by hand. Bel Colle's vineyards include three prestigious Geographical Mentions (MGAs); Monvigliero and Bussia in Barolo and Pajorè in Barbaresco.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMonvigliero, Comune di Verduno\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAn MGA of Barolo, Monvigliero has always been considered the \"Grand Cru\" of the commune of Verduno, as well as one of the most prestigious vineyards of the entire appellation. The vineyard is a natural amphitheatre facing southwest characterized by a particularly dry climate and light, loose soils that push the vines to give their best. Barolos from here are prized for their finesse and elegance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBussia, Comune di Monforte d’Alba\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eAn MGA of Barolo, Bussia is the most famous vineyard in Monforte d’Alba and has only recently been included among Bel Colle’s cultivation plots. Bel Colle's section of the vineyard is one of the highest, near the village of the same name, with excellent south-southwest exposure. Here the Nebbiolo vineyard reaches unparalleled heights of intensity and elegance. The marly soils meet a limestone matrix that expresses complex, sumptuous and excellent structured Barolo, with a slight savory note that enhances its freshness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePajorè, Comune di Treiso\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn MGA of Barbaresco, it is one of the appellation’s most renowned crus. It enjoys a well-established reputation thanks partly to the cult wines of Giovanni Moresco (now almost unobtainable). The rows have a very steep, almost terraced layout that enhances the excellent south and southwest exposure. Soils, elevations and exposure produce classic and elegant structured Barbaresco that is well delineated and beautifully balanced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBorgo Castagni, Municipalities of Verduno and La Morra \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe vineyards of Borgo Castagni include the plots that extend around the Bel Colle winery, on the border between the municipalities of Verduno and La Morra. They are divided between two Barolo MGAs, those of Neirane in Verduno \u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\" data-mce-style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eand Castagni in La Morra. The west-facing exposure, cool climate and good altitude express the wines unique olfactory array of intensity and persistence, marked by good freshness. Excellent structure is combined with extreme elegance. A peculiarity of Borgo Neirane is the presence of clay-limestone soils, characterized by veins of chalk, which give the Verduno Pelaverga wine produced here excellent aromatic breadth and sapidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTurna Lunga, Santo Stefano Belbo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eTurna Lunga is a magnificent vineyard in Valdivilla, a hamlet of Santo Stefano Belb. The vineyard is located on one of the most spectacular ridges of the eastern Langhe and is planted entirely with Moscato. The very steep slope of Turna Lunga, around 35 percent, means the plot demands a huge amount of laborious manual labour. The resulting single vineyard Moscato d’Asti DOCG Turna Lunga is extremely elegant, fresh and balanced, sweet yet never cloying.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBionzo, Astigiano (area around Asti)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eBelle Colle produces its Barbera d’Asti from a one hectare vineyard of Barbera in Bionzo, a small town overlooking the Tinella Valley which divides the hills of the eastern Langhe from the Monferrato Astigiano. The rows rise in a hot, well-exposed area that is extremely dry, inducing the clusters to ripen early and have great concentration. The resultant Barbera d’Asti Superiore DOCG Nuwanda is a single vineyard, full-bodied and alcoholic wine of great power which still preserves the acidity of the Barbera grape variety.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45024998588657,"sku":null,"price":115.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Bel-Colle-Monvigliero-Barolo-DOCG-2019_ad723db1-d0ee-41cc-8957-d79a27ff2edf.jpg?v=1717470537"},{"product_id":"viberti-giovanni-bricco-delle-viole-barolo-riserva-docg-2016","title":"Viberti Giovanni Bricco delle Viole, Barolo Riserva DOCG 2016","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eViberti Giovanni was founded in the early 1900s when Antonio Viberti purchased the Locanda del Buon Padre with an adjoining vineyard in the village of Vergne, located in the commune of Barolo. Today, grandson Claudio manages the family business, which sources grapes from eight estate cru vineyards in Barolo and two contract cru vineyards in Verduno and \u003cspan\u003eMonforte d'Alba.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Barolo Bricco delle Viole is produced from a 0.5 hectare plot planted in 1964 that Viberti owns in the Bricco delle Viole cru. Bricco delle Viole is the highest of the crus in the commune of Barolo, rising from 400 to 480 meters above sea level on the Western ridge of the village. Its name, 'Hill of Violets', originates from the flowers that blossom early thanks to its southern exposure. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"The Giovanni Viberti 2016 Barolo Riserva Bricco delle Viole is an exceptional wine with a most unique bouquet that is alive with blue flower, balsam herb, mint and cola. I just love it, although I recognize that not everyone is as crazy about those medicinal nuances as I am. The wine is vertical and bright, with aromas that come blasting off the bouquet. The wine's structure is fine and silky. This is a keeper.\"  Monica Larner\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"The wine is fermented in hat for a period ranging from 14 to 21 days. After malo-lactic fermentation in steel tanks at a controlled temperature of 20 ° C, the wine is aged in truncated cone vats for a period ranging from 46 to 50 months, followed by a steel return and subsequent bottling. The wine is marketed for 60 months prior to release.  Only produced in years suitable for long aging, the wine has characteristics of marked minerality, freshness and balsamic notes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\"  \u003cstrong\u003eViberti\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\"\u003cspan\u003eWith 3,070 bottles and 127 magnums made, the Giovanni Viberti 2016 Barolo Riserva Bricco delle Viole is an exceptional wine with a most unique bouquet that is alive with blue flower, balsam herb, mint and cola. I just love it, although I recognize that not everyone is as crazy about those medicinal nuances as I am. The wine is vertical and bright, with aromas that come blasting off the bouquet. The wine's structure is fine and silky. This is a keeper.\u003c\/span\u003e Drink: \u003cspan\u003e2024 - 2040\u003c\/span\u003e.\"\u003cb\u003e  Monica Larner, Wine Advocate - 96 points \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\"\u003cspan\u003eFull, bright red. Deep, somewhat brooding aromas of ripe dark cherry, red berries, stone fruits, hazelnut, vanilla, herbs and oak spices on the nose. Rich, dense and deep, with an underlying chalky quality giving the wine superb \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003elift\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e and an impression of weightlessness to the deep, brooding red and dark fruit flavours. With its precise, dry, stony finish, this sneakily concentrated, bracing-yet-silky wine leaves the mouth feeling refreshed and hints at plenty more to come if aged in a proper cellar. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhat intrigued me most about Viberti’s 2016 Barolo Riserva Bricco delle Viole is that, besides its undeniable potential for further evolution in the bottle (hence the + sign on my score) is how it combines elements of Viberti’s La Volta and San Pietro Riserva Barolos (namely the perfume and lightness of the former and the power and savouriness of the latter). Drinking window: 2026-2035.\u003c\/span\u003e\"  \u003cstrong\u003eIan D'Agata, Terroir Sense - 94+ points\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\"\u003cspan\u003eRed fruits, mint, perfume, tobacco, very gentle tannin and cool feel, strawberry and freshness, lots of length. Very good. A little spice to close. Elegant style and very fine.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA zero miles bottle. \u003c\/span\u003eDrink: 2023-2034+.\"  \u003cb\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front - 94+ points\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"Very alluring nose with pine and a hint of tiger balm cream to the red cherries. Mineral, too. Really juicy and bright on the palate with lots of firm and chalky tannins that give it a tight rounding. Already quite approachable now for Barolo, but better after 2024.\"  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Segoe UI',sans-serif; color: #212b36;\" data-mce-style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Segoe UI',sans-serif; color: #212b36;\"\u003eJames Suckling, JamesSuckling.com - 94 points\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePiedmont Nebbiolo\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Nebbiolo_Grape.png?v=1716280198\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Nebbiolo_Grape.png?v=1716280198\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Piedmont wine region is located in the north-west corner of Italy. The name Piemonte means \"at the foot of the mountains\", the mountains in this case being the Alps. Piedmont is just Italy’s seventh largest wine region, but what it lacks in quantity it makes up for in quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePiedmont is famous for its Nebbiolo wines. Nebbiolo, the most exalted wine variety of Piedmont, gets its name from the Italian word for 'fog', \u003cem\u003enebbia\u003c\/em\u003e. During harvest, which generally takes place late in October, a deep, intense fog sets into the Langhe region where the Nebbiolo vineyards are located. The Nebbiolo heartland is the tiny Barolo production zone, a cluster of fog-prone hills around the village of the same name.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNebbiolo is early-budding, but also late-ripening. It needs good weather and lots of sunlight to achieve full ripeness, which is why the best vineyards for growing Nebbiolo are located on hillsides that are exposed to plenty of sunlight. Hence the suitability of the slopes of the Langhe hills near the town of Alba. Nebbiolo is only planted on the hills at an altitude above 250m, as fog hangs over lower vineyards for large parts of the day and there is no chance of making decent wine from this late-ripening variety if it is not exposed to maximum sunshine. The lower vineyards are generally planted with Barbera or Dolcetto.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSoil types also play a crucial role. Nebbiolo thrives on calcareous marl, a lime-rich mudstone that is found on the right bank of the Tanaro River, home to the famous appellations Barolo and Barbaresco. Nebbiolo grapes grown on other soil types tend to make wines that are not as aromatic and elegant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNebbiolo produces a full-bodied wine with high levels of acidity and tannin, particularly when it is young - at odds with its light colour. It also has great aging potential – particularly the Barbaresco and Barolo wines that garner the highest price tags.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two highest classifications of wines produced from Nebbiolo in Piedmont are the DOCG denomination \u003cem\u003eDenominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita\u003c\/em\u003e (Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin) and the DOC denomination \u003cem\u003eDenominazione d'Origine Controllata\u003c\/em\u003e (Denomination of Controlled Origin).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn total, there are seventeen DOCG and DOC wines made in Piedmont. The five applicable to Nebbiolo are Barolo DOCG, Barbaresco DOCG and Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC (which must be made from 100% Nebbiolo) and Roero DOCG and Langhe Nebbiolo DOC (which must be made from at least 85% Nebbiolo).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/LangheMap_0ced5874-ccd1-4704-8851-8597023cfb1c_600x600.jpg?v=1696556901\" style=\"margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block;\" data-mce-style=\"margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/LangheMap_0ced5874-ccd1-4704-8851-8597023cfb1c_600x600.jpg?v=1696556901\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDOCG and DOC Nebbiolo production zones in Piedmont\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo DOCG\u003c\/strong\u003e is perhaps the most famous Nebbiolo wine. Its name derives from the small town in the heart of the Barolo production zone, but it is produced in eleven communes around the larger hillside towns in the area. Barolo DOCG wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo and must age in oak for at least 18 months with a total age time of 38 months before release. Barolo Riserva DOCG must \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eage in oak for at least 18 months with a total age time of 62 months before \u003c\/span\u003ebeing released.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarbaresco DOCG\u003c\/strong\u003e is often described as more elegant than the more powerful Barolo, the 'queen' to Barolo’s 'king'. Barbaresco DOCG wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo. The production zone is tiny, a third of the size of Barolo, and has less stringent regulations. Barbaresco DOCG wines must age in oak for at least 9 months with a total age time of 26 months before release. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarbaresco Riserva DOCG must \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eage in oak for at least 9 months with a total age time of 50 months before \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ebeing released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNebbiolo d’Alba DOC\u003c\/strong\u003e is produced between Barolo and Barbaresco. Near the two zones the wines are full-bodied and age very well. Further away, they’re delicate and best drunk young. This wine can also come from grapes from Barola or Barbaresco not quite up to heavenly standards, such as grapes from new vineyards in the famous hills or from less exalted vineyards. Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo and \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emust age for at least 12 months before release. Nebbiolo d’Alba Superiore DOC wines must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 18 months before being released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRoero DOCG i\u003c\/strong\u003es a little known zone just north of Barolo within the Langhe. Roero DOCG wines must be at least 95% Nebbiolo and must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 20 months before release. Roero Riserva DOCG must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 32 months before being released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLanghe Nebbiolo DOC\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003efalls in (is a subset of) one of the largest wine zones in Piedmont, Langhe DOC. \u003c\/span\u003eThe Langhe DOC covers 54 communes of the Langhe and Roero hills. Varietally focused wines can include the name Langhe plus the grape. All told, there are 23 different forms of Langhe wines with Langhe Nebbiolo being just one. Langhe Nebbiolo DOC wines can come from anywhere in the Langhe i.e. from any of the four zones above (Barolo, Barbaresco, Nebbiolo d’Alba or Roero). Langhe Nebbiolo DOC must be at least 85% Nebbiolo and al\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003elow for up to 15% of other indigenous grape varieties, such as \u003c\/span\u003esuch as Barbera and Dolcetto. In practice most are made entirely from Nebbiolo.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont_Nebbiolo_Serralunga_d_Alba_1024x1024.png?v=1716562793\" alt=\"\" style=\"float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont_Nebbiolo_Serralunga_d_Alba_1024x1024.png?v=1716562793\" data-mce-style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" class=\"MsoNormal\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSerralunga d'Alba in Piedmont, where the Nebbiolo grape is king\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696167899\" alt=\"Barolo Landscape\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696167899\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo, often referred to as the \"King of Wines\", is a powerful and full-bodied red wine made from Nebbiolo grapes. Barolo is special due to its unique combination of factors – its terroir, the Nebbiolo grape, and its winemaking traditions. The zone's spectacular terroir, a multitude of distinctive microclimates and soil compositions, is ideal for growing Nebbiolo. Furthermore, the centuries-old winemaking traditions add to the allure, resulting in a wine that is complex, full-bodied, and capable of aging gracefully for many years.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Barolo zone (the regulated production area) is a relatively small area in Piemont. It is 11km north to south and just over 8km at its widest point. Barolo comprises 11 different communes around the larger towns in the area - some of the more famous towns or villages are Barolo, Montforte d’Alba, La Morra and Serralunga d’Alba. These communes each have unique geography, soil, climate and altitude. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBarolo largely consists of three chains of hills separated by two north-south valleys, the Central Valley and Serralunga Valley. The communes are dotted up and down the twin valleys and hilly ranges that offer a huge variety of terroir.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 3D flyover of Barola below is worth watching to appreciate the compexity of the topography, the countless number of small hills and the changes that occur in the space of a few metres. However, for anyone wishing to gain a full appreciation of what Barolo looks like in the flesh, \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAlessandro Masnaghetti's\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003ca style=\"color: #808080;\" title=\"Alessandro Masnaghetti's Barolo MGA 360\" href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\"\u003eBarolo MGA 360\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca style=\"color: #808080;\" title=\"Alessandro Masnaghetti's Barolo MGA 360\" href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\"\u003e°\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eprovides a superb digital replica of the landscape.\u003cbr\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/HQmwjRhY-SA\" title=\"Barolo Vineyards in 3D flyover\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/HQmwjRhY-SA\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" alt=\"Barolo Vineyards in 3D flyover\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo3Dflyover_1facdbb5-6f80-4e50-8b28-4084fbf68997_240x240.png?v=1696134906\" data-mce-style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo3Dflyover_1facdbb5-6f80-4e50-8b28-4084fbf68997_240x240.png?v=1696134906\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Click on image to play 3D flyover\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Communes and 'Cru' Vineyards of Barolo\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThere are 11 approved communes in the Barolo production zone. \u003c\/span\u003eOver 87% of Barolo is produced in the original five and largest communes; La Morra, Barolo, Castiglione Falletto, Serralunga d'Alba and Monforte d'Alba.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe remaining six communes are Novello, Verduno, Cherasco, Roddi, Grinzane Cavour and Diano d’Alba (which is planted \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emore to Dolcetto than Nebbiolo). Interestingly, the first two of these are home to two of the most in-demand vineyards in the entire region; Monvigliero in Verduno and Ravera in Novello.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLa Morra and Barolo are the two main communes in the western part of the zone, also known as the Central Valley. The soils are Tortonian - a fertile, compact, calcareous marl that produces graceful wines with more florals and fruit. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Serralunga Valley to the east has Serravalian (also referred to as Helvetian) soils which are heavy in sandstone and sand, producing structured bold wines with high tannins. Within this area you will find the famous communes of Castiglione Falleto, Serralunga d’Alba and Monforte d’Alba.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolloCommunes_600x600_c9ff96db-54e3-47dd-bcea-805b78acc453_600x600.jpg?v=1716186871\" alt=\"Communes of Barolo\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolloCommunes_600x600_c9ff96db-54e3-47dd-bcea-805b78acc453_600x600.jpg?v=1716186871\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommunes of Barolo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo drinkers had become familiar over the years with the most recognizable of the 11 commune names appearing on the labels; Castiglione Falletto and Monforte d'Alba, for example. However, i\u003c\/span\u003en the ‘90s the world rediscovered Barolo, whose wines bore little comparison to the rough wines of the past. Barolo began selling out, prices increased and so did the surface area of vineyards. With new producers came a rise in new labels and new ways to distinguish one from the other. They began personalising their labels with more than just the commune; they used the names of the vineyards, villages, and people. This desire to differentiate quickly got out of control, and as has been the case in many other wine regions, the consumer became confused.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe first priority was to create order, to delineate and define the varying wine-growing areas. To make it official, the Barolo Consorzio, in cooperation with the province of Cuneo and the various Barolo villages, undertook the challenging task of regulating the use of vineyard and zonal names on labels. By 2010, after several years of hard work, they came up with a list of geographical designations that are allowed to appear on the Barolo label. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThese geographical designations or MGA (\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emenzioni geografiche aggiuntive\u003c\/em\u003e or additional geographic designations) refer to specific delimited areas of production and can be seen as the equivalent of the French term cru. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn total, there are 181 geographical designations, of which 11 are communal (one for each commune; e.g. \u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo del Comune di Serralunga d’Alba, Barolo del Comune di La Morra,\u003c\/em\u003e etc.). Wines may be labeled with one of these MGA provided the fruit comes from the stated designation. \u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe MGAs – it’s important to emphasize this – do not imply superiority in a qualitative sense. A Barolo carrying the name of an MGA on the label is not necessarily better or more valuable than a Barolo with another name or even with no name at all, although for many producers Barolo wines with an MGA usually represent the most prestigious wines in their lists.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMost of the 170 MGA refer to a single vineyard such as Cannubi or Brunate, however as there are a number of exceptions, the MGA term cannot technically be defined as a vineyard. Bussia, for example, in the commune of Monforte d'Alba and the second largest MGA at 738 acres, is actually a large hill made up of several vineyards. \u003c\/span\u003eThe name of single-vineyard wines within\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e their eponymous MGA \u003c\/span\u003eare permitted on the label. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePoderi Aldo Conterno, one of Barolo’s greatest producers, makes wines from three separate vineyards situated within the Bussia MGA; Colonello, Cicala and Romirasco.\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/uc?export=download\u0026amp;confirm=no_antivirus\u0026amp;id=1jgpl-l1jvpsy2Y1MQwwiSZmf95R51IaL\" title=\"Barolo MGA or Cru Official Map\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/uc?export=download\u0026amp;confirm=no_antivirus\u0026amp;id=1jgpl-l1jvpsy2Y1MQwwiSZmf95R51IaL\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: none;\" alt=\"Barolo MGA or Cru Map\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/BaroloCrusMap_33a4cb8d-4b17-47ab-b217-9f75dfb93dfe_600x600.png?v=1696144900\" data-mce-style=\"float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/BaroloCrusMap_33a4cb8d-4b17-47ab-b217-9f75dfb93dfe_600x600.png?v=1696144900\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClick map to enlarge 🔍\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA number of the MGA extend across more than one Commune. The Cerequio MGA, for example, is located between the towns of La Morra and Barolo and extends across the boundary of the two communes. It is one of the most prestigious vineyards within the appellation and a truly stunning landscape – it is so revered that it has been nicknamed the \"Riviera of the Langhe.\" Grapes from both sides are of extremely high-quality and become great wines, but acquiring land with the southwestern exposure is considered la crème de la crème of the MGA. Therefore, it is no coincidence that the labels that have made Barolo history are all from here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStrange as it may seem, European laws prevent the use of two or more MGA names together on the label, thus effectively stopping a noble and well-documented tradition of Barolo obtained by blending various vineyards. However, if the MGAs are situated in the same commune, the label may specify \"Barolo del Comune di Barolo\" or \"Barolo del Comune di La Morra\" and so on. Although contradictory, the same law that prevents use of two or more MGAs on the label allows the producer to add up to 15% of Barolo obtained from a second MGA to a Barolo with an MGA stated on the label.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe proper term for a vineyard is \u003cem\u003evigna\u003c\/em\u003e, which can also appear on the label. Two well-known examples are Poderi Oddero Barolo Bussia Vigna Mondoca and Bruno Giacosa Vigna Le Rocche Barolo Falletto. Note that the term vigna does not have to be used as an identifier – Aldo Conterno does not label his separate Barolos with this descriptor.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA brief summary of the most important communes and crus in the Barolo production zone follows.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLa Morra\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-LaMorra_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696147933\" alt=\"La Morra Commune\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-LaMorra_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696147933\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSituated at the northern end of the Central Valley, La Morra ranks first among all the communes as far as most acreage of Nebbiolo planted for production of Barolo as well as number of wineries (62); it is tied with Serralunga d’Alba for most MGA (39). Several of the highest vineyards in the zone are located here at elevations of more than 420m.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLa Morra is known for Barolo with rounder, more gentle tannins and more floral aromatics (especially from the Brunate MGA), as opposed to wines from Serralunga and Monforte d'Alba. The wines from the Rocche dell’Annunziata site are among the most complex, elegant and structured in all the commune.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRocche dell’Annunziata, La Serra, Arborina, Conca, Brunate and Cerequio (these last two are primarily situated in La Morra, with a smaller part of these sites also in the commune of Barolo).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRenato Ratti, Roberto Voerzio, Poderi Oddero, Elio Altare, Fratelli Revello, Marcarini, Mauro Molino, Mauro Veglio, Trediberri, Aurelio Settimo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Barolo_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696148642\" alt=\"Barolo Commune\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Barolo_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696148642\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSituated at the southern end of the Central Valley, t\u003c\/span\u003ehis commune lends its name to the wine produced in the Barolo Zone. The wines here are a mix of styles, with a typical Barolo from here being rich in tannins with a slight austerity. The most famous vineyard here is Cannubi, which contains both Tortonian and Serravalian soils, creating wines of great complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eCannubi, Sarmassa, Bricco delle Viole, Terlo, Liste, Castellero\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eBartolo Mascarello, Marchesi di Barolo, Scarzello, Borgogno, Damilano, Giuseppe Rinaldi, Francesco Rinaldi, Giacamo Brezza, Luciano Sandrone\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMonforte d'Alba\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Monforted_Alba_Barolo_52bdc4ed-ac7b-4dfb-b7e3-124cbc5d2daa_1024x1024.png?v=1696165973\" alt=\"Monforte d'Alba\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Monforted_Alba_Barolo_52bdc4ed-ac7b-4dfb-b7e3-124cbc5d2daa_1024x1024.png?v=1696165973\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSituated at the far southeastern reaches of the zone, Monforte d’Alba is home to long-aging, powerful examples of Barolo. There are only 11 MGA, but 53 wineries here; one reason for this is the large number of producers that make a Bussia Barolo. The wines here are generally quite ripe, and while there are numerous producers that take a modern approach in the cellar (e.g. Domenico Clerico), there are some such as Elio Grasso that specialize in more traditional examples of Barolo, with their Ginestra Casa Maté and Gavarini Chiniera Barolos.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eGinestra, Bussia, Mosconi, Castelletto, Le Coste di Monforte\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eElio Grasso, Domenico Clerico, Poderi Aldo Conterno, Giovanni Manzone, Josetta Saffirio, Giacomo Conterno, Giacomo Fenocchio, Amalia Cascina in Langa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSerralunga d’Alba \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Serralungad_Alba_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155302\" alt=\"Serralunga d’Alba commune\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Serralungad_Alba_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155302\"\u003eSituated north of Monforte d’Alba, Serralunga d’Alba marks the eastern border of the Barolo zone. If a classic syle of Barolo combines deep structure and longevity, then the Barolos of Serralunga are certainly among the most classic. These wines require time, but offers great rewards at their peak. Yet, you can find very approachable examples of Barolo from here; the offerings of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eBarolo Comune di Serralunga d’Alba\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eare often quite open upon release, displaying the rich fruit and tannins of Serralunga in a more refined manner. These are among the best values of the entire Barolo zone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs much as any commune, Serralunga is known for its remarkable assortment of vineyards, including Lazzarito, Vignarionda, Falletto of Bruno Giacosa, and Francia, the source of the celebrated Monfortino Barolo of Giacomo Conterno.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eFalletto, Francia, Lazzarito, Vignarionda, Margheria, Cerretta, Prapò, Parafada\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eFontanafredda, Ettore Germano, Paolo Manzone, Giovanni Rosso, Schiavenza, Palladino, Luigi Pira\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCastiglione Falletto\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Castiglione Falletto\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-CastiglioneFalletto_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155789\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-CastiglioneFalletto_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155789\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe commune of Castiglione Falletto is located to the west of Serralunga d’Alba, north of Monforte d’Alba and east of La Morra. The soils here are mixed with a good percentage of sand, resulting in wines that are often more fragrant and less tannic than those from Serralunga and Monforte. A typical Castiglione Falletto Barolo displays red cherry and starwberry fruit aromas and flavors along with distinct red spice notes. Rocche di Castiglione is arguably the best known site here, along with Villero (the source of Vietti\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eriserva\u003c\/em\u003e), Bricco Rocche of Ceretto, and Monprivato, this last made famous by Giuseppe Mascarello.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRocche di Castiglione, Bricco Rocche, Villero, Bricco Boschis, Parussi, Fiasco, Pernanno, Monprivato, Montanello\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eVietti, Paolo Scavino, Cavallotto, Monchiero Fratelli, Giovanni Sordo, Livia Fontanai\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVerduno\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Verduno Commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Verduno_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696156532\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Verduno_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696156532\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVerduno represents the far northwest reaches of the Barolo zone, and is known for wines that combine excellent ripeness with subtle spice, generally with mid-weight tannins. Clearly Verduno is most famous for the Monvigliero vineyard, situated just east of the town of Verduno, ranging from 220-310m above sea level. While most of this commune’s producers make a Monvigliero Barolo, recently many vintners throughout the Barolo zone have also added a Barolo from this vineyard - this includes Paolo Scavino, Giovanni Sordo and Terre del Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eMonvigliero, San Lorenzo di Verduno, Boscatto, Massara\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eBurlotto, Fratelli Alessandria, Bel Colle, Castello di Verduno\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNovello\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Novello Commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-NovelloBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696157519\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-NovelloBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696157519\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe commune of Novello is located at the far southwestern corner of the Barolo zone and has one of the coolest climates of any commune, thanks to the winds from the Cottian Alps to the south. The wines of Novello were among the most unrelenting years ago, but because of climate change, a typical Barolo from Novello is now riper and much more elegant. Clearly the interest in this commune over the past decade can be traced to the work of Valter Fissore and his wife Nadia, at their Elvio Cogno estate, with wines from the Ravera vineyard. Recently several renowned producers such as Vietti and Paolo Scavino have also released a Ravera Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRavera, Sottocastello di Novello, Cerviano-Merli, Panerole, Corini-Palaretta\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eElvio Cogno, Ca’Viola, Le Strette, Marenco\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBricco delle Viole\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Bricco_delle_Viole_MGA_1024x1024.png?v=1717898713\" alt=\"Bricco delle Viole cru in Barolo\" style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003eThe Bricco delle Viole cru in Barolo (highlighted in brown): \u003cem\u003eFrom \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo MGA 360° \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eBricco delle Viole is the highest of the crus in the commune of Barolo. It rises from 400 to 480 meters above sea level on the Western ridge of the village. Its name, \"Hill of Violets\", originates from the flowers that blossom early thanks to its southern exposure. Up above the fogs, Bricco delle Viole enjoys the earliest sunrise and the last sunset every day. Thanks to this pure light, a dramatic diuturnal temperature range and the age of its vines dating back to 1931, Bricco delle Viole generates a profound Barolo of bright aromatics, chiseled tannins and subtle minerality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\"Call it genius loci, call it emotion, call it whatever you like, but in the case of Bricco delle Viole, it is what in my opinion best defines this cru. Even more than the soils and geology and even more than the distinction between the upper and lower part of the MGA, divided by the strip of houses in the middle. What makes the difference is the sensation of openness, altitude, brightness and freedom that I feel every time I reach the upper part of Bricco delle Viole. This is a different place, as different as are the wines, more tense and fruity than those of Fossati, for example, which is a few hundred meters away with very similar soils, or, at the same time, less lean and composed than a Barolo from Serradenari. One might imagine this as a high place that needs hot vintages to thrive, but that is not the case, as many fine bottles can testify to the contrary.\"  \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAlessandro Masnaghetti\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Viberti Giovanni winery has 4 vineyards inside the cru. The exposures are mainly south and south east and the soil has an argil-calcareous composition. The resulting wines are decidedly elegant, with fine and feminine primary aromas. The height of the vineyard is responsible for the great freshness and minerality of the wines, well supported by an important acid framework. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe vineyard used for the Barolo Riserva Bricco Delle Viole was planted in 1964 and is 0.5 hectares in size. The vineyard is on the lower-lying section of the Bricco delle Viole, on the southern side of the road that  cuts through the cru.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe two plots planted at higher altitude on the northern side of the road are used to make the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBarolo Buon Padre and the Langhe Nebbiolo. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRecently a one hectare vineyard was planted in the highest part of the cru, which will be used for the Langhe Nebbiolo. The vineyard is on mainly calcareous soil and has a south east exposure that rotates to the west.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn the heart of the south side of the cru the Viberti family owns a Barbera vineyard that is used for the production of Barbera \u003c\/span\u003ed'Alba Superiore \u003cspan\u003eBricco Airoli. A source of pride and joy to the family, the vineyard planted in 1950 is the last patch of Barbera vines still found within the boundaries of the Bricco delle Viole cru.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Bricco delle Viole cru in Barolo and the four vineyards of Viberti Giovanni\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Viberti_Bricco_f350d0c0-b297-4ccc-b4fc-ad17577db1c6_1024x1024.jpg?v=1718259082\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Bricco delle Viole cru in Barolo (highlighted on the left) and the vineyards of Viberti Giovanni (highlighted on the right)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe winery\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Viberti_1024x1024.png?v=1717737954\" alt=\"Giovanni Viberti\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Viberti_1024x1024.png?v=1717737954\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eViberti Giovanni was founded in the early 1900s when Antonio Viberti, an innkeeper and restauranteur, purchased the Locanda del Buon Padre with an adjoining vineyard in the village of Vergne, located in the commune of Barolo. In 1923, he began producing wines exclusively for the patrons of the family restaurant, Trattoria al Buon Padre, from Dolcetto, Barbera and Nebbiolo grown in the estate vineyard. In 1955, Cavalier\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: Raleway; color: #7a7e82; background: #EFEFEF;\" data-mce-style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: Raleway; color: #7a7e82; background: #EFEFEF;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003estarted selling his Dolcetto d'Alba, Barbera d'Alba and Barolo at local markets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIn 1967, Antonio's son, Giovanni, joined the family business to manage the inn and adjoining cellar. A new winery was constructed and the vineyard expanded. Supported by his wife Maria, head chef of the family and restaurant kitchen, the winery and restaurant went from strength to strength. Their wines were promoted by the inn's constant visitors from neighbouring Switzerland, Germany and Austria, and in 1974, the first Viberti wines were exported to\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: Raleway; color: #7a7e82; background: #EFEFEF;\" data-mce-style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: Raleway; color: #7a7e82; background: #EFEFEF;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003esouthern Europe to satisfy the growing demand outside Piedmont.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eGiovanni's eldest son, Gianluca, joined the family business in 1989 after graduating from the Enological School of Alba. The winery started bottling single vineyard Barolos, introduced new winemaking techniques and began exporting to the emerging US market.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIn 2004, Claudio, Giovanni’s third son, joined his brother at the winery. He oversaw the start of a substantial investment in Barbera, replanting the vines with much tighter spacing and dropping yields to produce higher quality Barbera. A new flagship wine was born, Barbera d’Alba La Gemella, named \u003cspan\u003ein honour of Maria who was a twin and a major driving force behind the family's success\u003c\/span\u003e. Maria had insisted over the years that the family keep making Barbaera d'Alba and often lamented how many of the beautiful local Barbera vineyards had been replanted with the more profitable variety Nebbiolo. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eClaudio took over management of the family winery in 2008 while Gianluca, after more than twenty years tending the family vineyards, left to establish the new Casino Bric 460 winery nearby. Claudio acquired new vineyards in Barolo and negotiated contracts with growers in Monforte d'Alba and Verduno to supply grapes for the historic Barolo Buon Padre label. Investment in new vineyards for the growth of Barbera Gemella continued.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eToday, Viberti produces 120,000 bottles a year and exports to over 25 countries worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Vineyards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe estate vineyards are the beating heart of production and are managed with extreme care and attention to detail. They are mainly located on the west side of the City of Barolo, at an altitude of \u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e400 - 500 meters above sea level. Nebbiolo, Barbera and Dolcetto, together with a tiny amount of Chardonnay are grown.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eViberti own eight vineyards in the commune of Barolo, in the crus of Bricco Delle Viole, San Pietro, La Volta, Fossati, Terlo, Albarella, Ravera and San Ponzio. In addition, they source grapes from vineyards in the Monvigliero cru of Verduno and Perno cru of Monforte d'Alba (refer to the map below).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReserve Barolos are produced from the crus of Bricco Delle Viole, San Pietro, La Volta and Monvigliero. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe historical Barolo cuvée Buon Padre (first produced in 1927) is today a skillful assemblage of the 10 crus across the communes of Barolo, Monforte d'Alba and Verduno.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" alt=\"The vineyards of Viberti in Barolo\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Viberti_Vineyards_1024x1024.jpg?v=1718341341\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe vineyards of Viberti in the commune of Barolo: \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eO\u003c\/span\u003e are estate-owned vineyards, \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eP\u003c\/span\u003e are contract vineyards (grapes are purchased)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45050383925489,"sku":null,"price":135.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Viberti-Giovanni-Bricco-delle-Viole-Barolo-Riserva-DOCG-2016.jpg?v=1718065915"},{"product_id":"viberti-giovanni-san-pietro-barolo-riserva-docg-2016","title":"Viberti Giovanni San Pietro, Barolo Riserva DOCG 2016","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eViberti Giovanni was founded in the early 1900s when Antonio Viberti purchased the Locanda del Buon Padre with an adjoining vineyard in the village of Vergne, located in the commune of Barolo. Today, grandson Claudio manages the family business, which sources grapes from eight estate cru vineyards in Barolo and two contract cru vineyards in Verduno and \u003cspan\u003eMonforte d'Alba.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe flagship wine of the San Pietro cru in Barolo is the Barolo Riserva from Viberti Giovanni. The Viberti winery has 3 small plots inside the cru and it is only the grapes from the highest plot nearest the road that are used to make the Barolo Riserva.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"Iron, raw meat with a fine mineral quality to the red cherries and cranberries. Really juicy and bright on the palate with powerful yet fine, chalky tannins and a layered finish. Pure and transparent in soul with fine Barolo structure and austerity. Already drinkable now, but give it one or two more years.\"  James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\"The grapes are fermented in vertical hatched steel tanks for a period ranging from 16 to 21 days. After malo-lactic fermentation in steel tanks at a controlled temperature of 20° C, the wine is aged in un-roasted 50 hl vats for a period of 46 months, followed by a further 3 months in steel before bottling. Only produced in years suitable for long aging, the wine has typical hints of undergrowth and wild rose.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eViberti\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\"\u003cspan\u003eSpice, red fruit, aniseed and dried flower perfume. Medium-bodied, tight and very ‘mineral’, such fine bones and running on rails of tight chalky tannin, succulence and fragrance, spiced strawberry and almond paste, so precise and engaging, brick dust and a clean finish of impeccable length. Outstanding. Time will be very kind. A great Barolo.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eDrink: 2023-2036+.\"  \u003cb\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front - 95+ points\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\"\u003cspan\u003eThe 2016 Barolo Riserva San Pietro opens to a medium saturation with dark ruby and garnet. This Nebbiolo from the village of Barolo offers some balsam notes that are rounded off in this case by dry tobacco and pressed roses. The tannins are dry, but the wine maintains pretty silkiness throughout. Like the other Riserva releases from this estate, production is 3,070 bottles and 127 magnums.\u003c\/span\u003e Drink: \u003cspan\u003e2024 - 2038\u003c\/span\u003e.\"\u003cb\u003e  Monica Larner, Wine Advocate - 95 points \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"\u003c\/span\u003eIron, raw meat with a fine mineral quality to the red cherries and cranberries. Really juicy and bright on the palate with powerful yet fine, chalky tannins and a layered finish. Pure and transparent in soul with fine Barolo structure and austerity. Already drinkable now, but give it one or two more years.\u003cspan\u003e\"  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Segoe UI',sans-serif; color: #212b36;\" data-mce-style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Segoe UI',sans-serif; color: #212b36;\"\u003eJames Suckling, JamesSuckling.com - 94 points\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePiedmont Nebbiolo\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Nebbiolo_Grape.png?v=1716280198\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Nebbiolo_Grape.png?v=1716280198\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Piedmont wine region is located in the north-west corner of Italy. The name Piemonte means \"at the foot of the mountains\", the mountains in this case being the Alps. Piedmont is just Italy’s seventh largest wine region, but what it lacks in quantity it makes up for in quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePiedmont is famous for its Nebbiolo wines. Nebbiolo, the most exalted wine variety of Piedmont, gets its name from the Italian word for 'fog', \u003cem\u003enebbia\u003c\/em\u003e. During harvest, which generally takes place late in October, a deep, intense fog sets into the Langhe region where the Nebbiolo vineyards are located. The Nebbiolo heartland is the tiny Barolo production zone, a cluster of fog-prone hills around the village of the same name.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNebbiolo is early-budding, but also late-ripening. It needs good weather and lots of sunlight to achieve full ripeness, which is why the best vineyards for growing Nebbiolo are located on hillsides that are exposed to plenty of sunlight. Hence the suitability of the slopes of the Langhe hills near the town of Alba. Nebbiolo is only planted on the hills at an altitude above 250m, as fog hangs over lower vineyards for large parts of the day and there is no chance of making decent wine from this late-ripening variety if it is not exposed to maximum sunshine. The lower vineyards are generally planted with Barbera or Dolcetto.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSoil types also play a crucial role. Nebbiolo thrives on calcareous marl, a lime-rich mudstone that is found on the right bank of the Tanaro River, home to the famous appellations Barolo and Barbaresco. Nebbiolo grapes grown on other soil types tend to make wines that are not as aromatic and elegant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNebbiolo produces a full-bodied wine with high levels of acidity and tannin, particularly when it is young - at odds with its light colour. It also has great aging potential – particularly the Barbaresco and Barolo wines that garner the highest price tags.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two highest classifications of wines produced from Nebbiolo in Piedmont are the DOCG denomination \u003cem\u003eDenominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita\u003c\/em\u003e (Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin) and the DOC denomination \u003cem\u003eDenominazione d'Origine Controllata\u003c\/em\u003e (Denomination of Controlled Origin).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn total, there are seventeen DOCG and DOC wines made in Piedmont. The five applicable to Nebbiolo are Barolo DOCG, Barbaresco DOCG and Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC (which must be made from 100% Nebbiolo) and Roero DOCG and Langhe Nebbiolo DOC (which must be made from at least 85% Nebbiolo).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/LangheMap_0ced5874-ccd1-4704-8851-8597023cfb1c_600x600.jpg?v=1696556901\" style=\"margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block;\" data-mce-style=\"margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/LangheMap_0ced5874-ccd1-4704-8851-8597023cfb1c_600x600.jpg?v=1696556901\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDOCG and DOC Nebbiolo production zones in Piedmont\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo DOCG\u003c\/strong\u003e is perhaps the most famous Nebbiolo wine. Its name derives from the small town in the heart of the Barolo production zone, but it is produced in eleven communes around the larger hillside towns in the area. Barolo DOCG wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo and must age in oak for at least 18 months with a total age time of 38 months before release. Barolo Riserva DOCG must \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eage in oak for at least 18 months with a total age time of 62 months before \u003c\/span\u003ebeing released.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarbaresco DOCG\u003c\/strong\u003e is often described as more elegant than the more powerful Barolo, the 'queen' to Barolo’s 'king'. Barbaresco DOCG wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo. The production zone is tiny, a third of the size of Barolo, and has less stringent regulations. Barbaresco DOCG wines must age in oak for at least 9 months with a total age time of 26 months before release. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarbaresco Riserva DOCG must \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eage in oak for at least 9 months with a total age time of 50 months before \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ebeing released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNebbiolo d’Alba DOC\u003c\/strong\u003e is produced between Barolo and Barbaresco. Near the two zones the wines are full-bodied and age very well. Further away, they’re delicate and best drunk young. This wine can also come from grapes from Barola or Barbaresco not quite up to heavenly standards, such as grapes from new vineyards in the famous hills or from less exalted vineyards. Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo and \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emust age for at least 12 months before release. Nebbiolo d’Alba Superiore DOC wines must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 18 months before being released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRoero DOCG i\u003c\/strong\u003es a little known zone just north of Barolo within the Langhe. Roero DOCG wines must be at least 95% Nebbiolo and must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 20 months before release. Roero Riserva DOCG must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 32 months before being released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLanghe Nebbiolo DOC\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003efalls in (is a subset of) one of the largest wine zones in Piedmont, Langhe DOC. \u003c\/span\u003eThe Langhe DOC covers 54 communes of the Langhe and Roero hills. Varietally focused wines can include the name Langhe plus the grape. All told, there are 23 different forms of Langhe wines with Langhe Nebbiolo being just one. Langhe Nebbiolo DOC wines can come from anywhere in the Langhe i.e. from any of the four zones above (Barolo, Barbaresco, Nebbiolo d’Alba or Roero). Langhe Nebbiolo DOC must be at least 85% Nebbiolo and al\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003elow for up to 15% of other indigenous grape varieties, such as \u003c\/span\u003esuch as Barbera and Dolcetto. In practice most are made entirely from Nebbiolo.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont_Nebbiolo_Serralunga_d_Alba_1024x1024.png?v=1716562793\" alt=\"\" style=\"float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont_Nebbiolo_Serralunga_d_Alba_1024x1024.png?v=1716562793\" data-mce-style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" class=\"MsoNormal\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSerralunga d'Alba in Piedmont, where the Nebbiolo grape is king\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696167899\" alt=\"Barolo Landscape\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696167899\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo, often referred to as the \"King of Wines\", is a powerful and full-bodied red wine made from Nebbiolo grapes. Barolo is special due to its unique combination of factors – its terroir, the Nebbiolo grape, and its winemaking traditions. The zone's spectacular terroir, a multitude of distinctive microclimates and soil compositions, is ideal for growing Nebbiolo. Furthermore, the centuries-old winemaking traditions add to the allure, resulting in a wine that is complex, full-bodied, and capable of aging gracefully for many years.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Barolo zone (the regulated production area) is a relatively small area in Piemont. It is 11km north to south and just over 8km at its widest point. Barolo comprises 11 different communes around the larger towns in the area - some of the more famous towns or villages are Barolo, Montforte d’Alba, La Morra and Serralunga d’Alba. These communes each have unique geography, soil, climate and altitude. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBarolo largely consists of three chains of hills separated by two north-south valleys, the Central Valley and Serralunga Valley. The communes are dotted up and down the twin valleys and hilly ranges that offer a huge variety of terroir.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 3D flyover of Barola below is worth watching to appreciate the compexity of the topography, the countless number of small hills and the changes that occur in the space of a few metres. However, for anyone wishing to gain a full appreciation of what Barolo looks like in the flesh, \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAlessandro Masnaghetti's\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003ca style=\"color: #808080;\" title=\"Alessandro Masnaghetti's Barolo MGA 360\" href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\"\u003eBarolo MGA 360\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca style=\"color: #808080;\" title=\"Alessandro Masnaghetti's Barolo MGA 360\" href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\"\u003e°\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eprovides a superb digital replica of the landscape.\u003cbr\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/HQmwjRhY-SA\" title=\"Barolo Vineyards in 3D flyover\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/HQmwjRhY-SA\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" alt=\"Barolo Vineyards in 3D flyover\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo3Dflyover_1facdbb5-6f80-4e50-8b28-4084fbf68997_240x240.png?v=1696134906\" data-mce-style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo3Dflyover_1facdbb5-6f80-4e50-8b28-4084fbf68997_240x240.png?v=1696134906\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Click on image to play 3D flyover\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Communes and 'Cru' Vineyards of Barolo\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThere are 11 approved communes in the Barolo production zone. \u003c\/span\u003eOver 87% of Barolo is produced in the original five and largest communes; La Morra, Barolo, Castiglione Falletto, Serralunga d'Alba and Monforte d'Alba.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe remaining six communes are Novello, Verduno, Cherasco, Roddi, Grinzane Cavour and Diano d’Alba (which is planted \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emore to Dolcetto than Nebbiolo). Interestingly, the first two of these are home to two of the most in-demand vineyards in the entire region; Monvigliero in Verduno and Ravera in Novello.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLa Morra and Barolo are the two main communes in the western part of the zone, also known as the Central Valley. The soils are Tortonian - a fertile, compact, calcareous marl that produces graceful wines with more florals and fruit. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Serralunga Valley to the east has Serravalian (also referred to as Helvetian) soils which are heavy in sandstone and sand, producing structured bold wines with high tannins. Within this area you will find the famous communes of Castiglione Falleto, Serralunga d’Alba and Monforte d’Alba.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolloCommunes_600x600_c9ff96db-54e3-47dd-bcea-805b78acc453_600x600.jpg?v=1716186871\" alt=\"Communes of Barolo\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolloCommunes_600x600_c9ff96db-54e3-47dd-bcea-805b78acc453_600x600.jpg?v=1716186871\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommunes of Barolo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo drinkers had become familiar over the years with the most recognizable of the 11 commune names appearing on the labels; Castiglione Falletto and Monforte d'Alba, for example. However, i\u003c\/span\u003en the ‘90s the world rediscovered Barolo, whose wines bore little comparison to the rough wines of the past. Barolo began selling out, prices increased and so did the surface area of vineyards. With new producers came a rise in new labels and new ways to distinguish one from the other. They began personalising their labels with more than just the commune; they used the names of the vineyards, villages, and people. This desire to differentiate quickly got out of control, and as has been the case in many other wine regions, the consumer became confused.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe first priority was to create order, to delineate and define the varying wine-growing areas. To make it official, the Barolo Consorzio, in cooperation with the province of Cuneo and the various Barolo villages, undertook the challenging task of regulating the use of vineyard and zonal names on labels. By 2010, after several years of hard work, they came up with a list of geographical designations that are allowed to appear on the Barolo label. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThese geographical designations or MGA (\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emenzioni geografiche aggiuntive\u003c\/em\u003e or additional geographic designations) refer to specific delimited areas of production and can be seen as the equivalent of the French term cru. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn total, there are 181 geographical designations, of which 11 are communal (one for each commune; e.g. \u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo del Comune di Serralunga d’Alba, Barolo del Comune di La Morra,\u003c\/em\u003e etc.). Wines may be labeled with one of these MGA provided the fruit comes from the stated designation. \u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe MGAs – it’s important to emphasize this – do not imply superiority in a qualitative sense. A Barolo carrying the name of an MGA on the label is not necessarily better or more valuable than a Barolo with another name or even with no name at all, although for many producers Barolo wines with an MGA usually represent the most prestigious wines in their lists.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMost of the 170 MGA refer to a single vineyard such as Cannubi or Brunate, however as there are a number of exceptions, the MGA term cannot technically be defined as a vineyard. Bussia, for example, in the commune of Monforte d'Alba and the second largest MGA at 738 acres, is actually a large hill made up of several vineyards. \u003c\/span\u003eThe name of single-vineyard wines within\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e their eponymous MGA \u003c\/span\u003eare permitted on the label. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePoderi Aldo Conterno, one of Barolo’s greatest producers, makes wines from three separate vineyards situated within the Bussia MGA; Colonello, Cicala and Romirasco.\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/uc?export=download\u0026amp;confirm=no_antivirus\u0026amp;id=1jgpl-l1jvpsy2Y1MQwwiSZmf95R51IaL\" title=\"Barolo MGA or Cru Official Map\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/uc?export=download\u0026amp;confirm=no_antivirus\u0026amp;id=1jgpl-l1jvpsy2Y1MQwwiSZmf95R51IaL\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: none;\" alt=\"Barolo MGA or Cru Map\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/BaroloCrusMap_33a4cb8d-4b17-47ab-b217-9f75dfb93dfe_600x600.png?v=1696144900\" data-mce-style=\"float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/BaroloCrusMap_33a4cb8d-4b17-47ab-b217-9f75dfb93dfe_600x600.png?v=1696144900\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClick map to enlarge 🔍\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA number of the MGA extend across more than one Commune. The Cerequio MGA, for example, is located between the towns of La Morra and Barolo and extends across the boundary of the two communes. It is one of the most prestigious vineyards within the appellation and a truly stunning landscape – it is so revered that it has been nicknamed the \"Riviera of the Langhe.\" Grapes from both sides are of extremely high-quality and become great wines, but acquiring land with the southwestern exposure is considered la crème de la crème of the MGA. Therefore, it is no coincidence that the labels that have made Barolo history are all from here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStrange as it may seem, European laws prevent the use of two or more MGA names together on the label, thus effectively stopping a noble and well-documented tradition of Barolo obtained by blending various vineyards. However, if the MGAs are situated in the same commune, the label may specify \"Barolo del Comune di Barolo\" or \"Barolo del Comune di La Morra\" and so on. Although contradictory, the same law that prevents use of two or more MGAs on the label allows the producer to add up to 15% of Barolo obtained from a second MGA to a Barolo with an MGA stated on the label.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe proper term for a vineyard is \u003cem\u003evigna\u003c\/em\u003e, which can also appear on the label. Two well-known examples are Poderi Oddero Barolo Bussia Vigna Mondoca and Bruno Giacosa Vigna Le Rocche Barolo Falletto. Note that the term vigna does not have to be used as an identifier – Aldo Conterno does not label his separate Barolos with this descriptor.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA brief summary of the most important communes and crus in the Barolo production zone follows.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLa Morra\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-LaMorra_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696147933\" alt=\"La Morra Commune\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-LaMorra_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696147933\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSituated at the northern end of the Central Valley, La Morra ranks first among all the communes as far as most acreage of Nebbiolo planted for production of Barolo as well as number of wineries (62); it is tied with Serralunga d’Alba for most MGA (39). Several of the highest vineyards in the zone are located here at elevations of more than 420m.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLa Morra is known for Barolo with rounder, more gentle tannins and more floral aromatics (especially from the Brunate MGA), as opposed to wines from Serralunga and Monforte d'Alba. The wines from the Rocche dell’Annunziata site are among the most complex, elegant and structured in all the commune.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRocche dell’Annunziata, La Serra, Arborina, Conca, Brunate and Cerequio (these last two are primarily situated in La Morra, with a smaller part of these sites also in the commune of Barolo).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRenato Ratti, Roberto Voerzio, Poderi Oddero, Elio Altare, Fratelli Revello, Marcarini, Mauro Molino, Mauro Veglio, Trediberri, Aurelio Settimo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Barolo_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696148642\" alt=\"Barolo Commune\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Barolo_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696148642\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSituated at the southern end of the Central Valley, t\u003c\/span\u003ehis commune lends its name to the wine produced in the Barolo Zone. The wines here are a mix of styles, with a typical Barolo from here being rich in tannins with a slight austerity. The most famous vineyard here is Cannubi, which contains both Tortonian and Serravalian soils, creating wines of great complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eCannubi, Sarmassa, Bricco delle Viole, Terlo, Liste, Castellero\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eBartolo Mascarello, Marchesi di Barolo, Scarzello, Borgogno, Damilano, Giuseppe Rinaldi, Francesco Rinaldi, Giacamo Brezza, Luciano Sandrone\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMonforte d'Alba\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Monforted_Alba_Barolo_52bdc4ed-ac7b-4dfb-b7e3-124cbc5d2daa_1024x1024.png?v=1696165973\" alt=\"Monforte d'Alba\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Monforted_Alba_Barolo_52bdc4ed-ac7b-4dfb-b7e3-124cbc5d2daa_1024x1024.png?v=1696165973\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSituated at the far southeastern reaches of the zone, Monforte d’Alba is home to long-aging, powerful examples of Barolo. There are only 11 MGA, but 53 wineries here; one reason for this is the large number of producers that make a Bussia Barolo. The wines here are generally quite ripe, and while there are numerous producers that take a modern approach in the cellar (e.g. Domenico Clerico), there are some such as Elio Grasso that specialize in more traditional examples of Barolo, with their Ginestra Casa Maté and Gavarini Chiniera Barolos.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eGinestra, Bussia, Mosconi, Castelletto, Le Coste di Monforte\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eElio Grasso, Domenico Clerico, Poderi Aldo Conterno, Giovanni Manzone, Josetta Saffirio, Giacomo Conterno, Giacomo Fenocchio, Amalia Cascina in Langa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSerralunga d’Alba \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Serralungad_Alba_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155302\" alt=\"Serralunga d’Alba commune\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Serralungad_Alba_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155302\"\u003eSituated north of Monforte d’Alba, Serralunga d’Alba marks the eastern border of the Barolo zone. If a classic syle of Barolo combines deep structure and longevity, then the Barolos of Serralunga are certainly among the most classic. These wines require time, but offers great rewards at their peak. Yet, you can find very approachable examples of Barolo from here; the offerings of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eBarolo Comune di Serralunga d’Alba\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eare often quite open upon release, displaying the rich fruit and tannins of Serralunga in a more refined manner. These are among the best values of the entire Barolo zone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs much as any commune, Serralunga is known for its remarkable assortment of vineyards, including Lazzarito, Vignarionda, Falletto of Bruno Giacosa, and Francia, the source of the celebrated Monfortino Barolo of Giacomo Conterno.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eFalletto, Francia, Lazzarito, Vignarionda, Margheria, Cerretta, Prapò, Parafada\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eFontanafredda, Ettore Germano, Paolo Manzone, Giovanni Rosso, Schiavenza, Palladino, Luigi Pira\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCastiglione Falletto\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Castiglione Falletto\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-CastiglioneFalletto_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155789\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-CastiglioneFalletto_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155789\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe commune of Castiglione Falletto is located to the west of Serralunga d’Alba, north of Monforte d’Alba and east of La Morra. The soils here are mixed with a good percentage of sand, resulting in wines that are often more fragrant and less tannic than those from Serralunga and Monforte. A typical Castiglione Falletto Barolo displays red cherry and starwberry fruit aromas and flavors along with distinct red spice notes. Rocche di Castiglione is arguably the best known site here, along with Villero (the source of Vietti\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eriserva\u003c\/em\u003e), Bricco Rocche of Ceretto, and Monprivato, this last made famous by Giuseppe Mascarello.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRocche di Castiglione, Bricco Rocche, Villero, Bricco Boschis, Parussi, Fiasco, Pernanno, Monprivato, Montanello\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eVietti, Paolo Scavino, Cavallotto, Monchiero Fratelli, Giovanni Sordo, Livia Fontanai\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVerduno\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Verduno Commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Verduno_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696156532\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Verduno_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696156532\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVerduno represents the far northwest reaches of the Barolo zone, and is known for wines that combine excellent ripeness with subtle spice, generally with mid-weight tannins. Clearly Verduno is most famous for the Monvigliero vineyard, situated just east of the town of Verduno, ranging from 220-310m above sea level. While most of this commune’s producers make a Monvigliero Barolo, recently many vintners throughout the Barolo zone have also added a Barolo from this vineyard - this includes Paolo Scavino, Giovanni Sordo and Terre del Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eMonvigliero, San Lorenzo di Verduno, Boscatto, Massara\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eBurlotto, Fratelli Alessandria, Bel Colle, Castello di Verduno\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNovello\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Novello Commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-NovelloBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696157519\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-NovelloBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696157519\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe commune of Novello is located at the far southwestern corner of the Barolo zone and has one of the coolest climates of any commune, thanks to the winds from the Cottian Alps to the south. The wines of Novello were among the most unrelenting years ago, but because of climate change, a typical Barolo from Novello is now riper and much more elegant. Clearly the interest in this commune over the past decade can be traced to the work of Valter Fissore and his wife Nadia, at their Elvio Cogno estate, with wines from the Ravera vineyard. Recently several renowned producers such as Vietti and Paolo Scavino have also released a Ravera Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRavera, Sottocastello di Novello, Cerviano-Merli, Panerole, Corini-Palaretta\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eElvio Cogno, Ca’Viola, Le Strette, Marenco\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSan Pietro\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"San Pietro cru in Barolo\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/San_Pietro_MGA_1024x1024.png?v=1717988203\" style=\"float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/San_Pietro_MGA_1024x1024.png?v=1717988203\" data-mce-style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003eThe San Pietro cru in Barolo showing Viberti's vineyards (outlined in solid red): \u003cem\u003eFrom \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo MGA 360° \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eSan Pietro is a medium sized cru in the commune of Barolo, named after the chapel of San Pietro, the prominent landmark that sits on the hill overlooking the village of Barolo. The cru rises from 350 to 410 meters above sea level and its vineyards are exposed from the east to the northeast and form part of a large amphitheatre overlooking the towns of Barolo and La Morra.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe flagship wine of the cru is the Barolo Riserva San Pietro from Viberti Giovanni. The winery has 3 plots inside the cru (refer the map below). It is only the grapes from the highest plot nearest the road that are used to make the Barolo Riserva, while those of the lower two plots go into the Barolo Buon Padre blend.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" alt=\"San Pietro cru in Barolo and the vineyards of Viberti Giovanni\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Viberti_San_Pietro_1024x1024.jpg?v=1718260564\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe San Pietro cru in Barolo (highlighted on the left) and the vineyards of Viberti Giovanni (highlighted on the right)\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe winery\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Viberti_1024x1024.png?v=1717737954\" alt=\"Giovanni Viberti\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Viberti_1024x1024.png?v=1717737954\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eViberti Giovanni was founded in the early 1900s when Antonio Viberti, an innkeeper and restauranteur, purchased the Locanda del Buon Padre with an adjoining vineyard in the village of Vergne, located in the commune of Barolo. In 1923, he began producing wines exclusively for the patrons of the family restaurant, Trattoria al Buon Padre, from Dolcetto, Barbera and Nebbiolo grown in the estate vineyard. In 1955, Cavalier\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: Raleway; color: #7a7e82; background: #EFEFEF;\" data-mce-style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: Raleway; color: #7a7e82; background: #EFEFEF;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003estarted selling his Dolcetto d'Alba, Barbera d'Alba and Barolo at local markets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIn 1967, Antonio's son, Giovanni, joined the family business to manage the inn and adjoining cellar. A new winery was constructed and the vineyard expanded. Supported by his wife Maria, head chef of the family and restaurant kitchen, the winery and restaurant went from strength to strength. Their wines were promoted by the inn's constant visitors from neighbouring Switzerland, Germany and Austria, and in 1974, the first Viberti wines were exported to\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: Raleway; color: #7a7e82; background: #EFEFEF;\" data-mce-style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: Raleway; color: #7a7e82; background: #EFEFEF;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003esouthern Europe to satisfy the growing demand outside Piedmont.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eGiovanni's eldest son, Gianluca, joined the family business in 1989 after graduating from the Enological School of Alba. The winery started bottling single vineyard Barolos, introduced new winemaking techniques and began exporting to the emerging US market.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIn 2004, Claudio, Giovanni’s third son, joined his brother at the winery. He oversaw the start of a substantial investment in Barbera, replanting the vines with much tighter spacing and dropping yields to produce higher quality Barbera. A new flagship wine was born, Barbera d’Alba La Gemella, named \u003cspan\u003ein honour of Maria who was a twin and a major driving force behind the family's success\u003c\/span\u003e. Maria had insisted over the years that the family keep making Barbaera d'Alba and often lamented how many of the beautiful local Barbera vineyards had been replanted with the more profitable variety Nebbiolo. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eClaudio took over management of the family winery in 2008 while Gianluca, after more than twenty years tending the family vineyards, left to establish the new Casino Bric 460 winery nearby. Claudio acquired new vineyards in Barolo and negotiated contracts with growers in Monforte d'Alba and Verduno to supply grapes for the historic Barolo Buon Padre label. Investment in new vineyards for the growth of Barbera Gemella continued.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eToday, Viberti produces 120,000 bottles a year and exports to over 25 countries worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Vineyards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe estate vineyards are the beating heart of production and are managed with extreme care and attention to detail. They are mainly located on the west side of the City of Barolo, at an altitude of \u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e400 - 500 meters above sea level. Nebbiolo, Barbera and Dolcetto, together with a tiny amount of Chardonnay are grown.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eViberti own eight vineyards in the commune of Barolo, in the crus of Bricco Delle Viole, San Pietro, La Volta, Fossati, Terlo, Albarella, Ravera and San Ponzio. In addition, they source grapes from vineyards in the Monvigliero cru of Verduno and Perno cru of Monforte d'Alba (refer to the map below).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReserve Barolos are produced from the crus of Bricco Delle Viole, San Pietro, La Volta and Monvigliero. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe historical Barolo cuvée Buon Padre (first produced in 1927) is today a skillful assemblage of the 10 crus across the communes of Barolo, Monforte d'Alba and Verduno.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"The vineyards of Viberti in Barolo\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Viberti_Vineyards_1024x1024.jpg?v=1718341341\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe vineyards of Viberti in the commune of Barolo: \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eO\u003c\/span\u003e are estate-owned vineyards, \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eP\u003c\/span\u003e are contract vineyards (grapes are purchased)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45053453238513,"sku":null,"price":139.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Viberti-Giovanni-San-Pietro-Barolo-Riserva-DOCG-2016.jpg?v=1718067190"},{"product_id":"viberti-giovanni-la-volta-barolo-riserva-docg-2016","title":"Viberti Giovanni La Volta, Barolo Riserva DOCG 2016","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIan D'Agata - Top Italian Wines of 2023\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eViberti Giovanni was founded in the early 1900s when Antonio Viberti purchased the Locanda del Buon Padre with an adjoining vineyard in the village of Vergne, located in the commune of Barolo. Today, grandson Claudio manages the family business, which sources grapes from eight estate cru vineyards in Barolo and two contract cru vineyards in Verduno and \u003cspan\u003eMonforte d'Alba.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe La Volta cru in the commune of Barolo lies below the deserted and crumbling Castle of La Volta which towers over the village of Barolo. The Viberti winery has 2 plots inside the cru covering an area of 2.5 hectares, but it is only the grapes from the historic steeper plot nearest the road that are used to make the Barolo Riserva (refer the photo below).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\"They have pulled a rabbit out of the hat in 2016, with La Volta. Succulent, ripe cherry and red fruits, all the almond and floral perfume. It’s dense, has chew, and delightful stony tannin, fragrance and intensity, clean, fresh and so mineral with a powerful finish of ripe tannin, spiced strawberry, and almond biscotti. A superb wine of verity and impact.\"  Gary Walsh\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\"The grapes are fermented with a submerged cap for a period ranging from 14 to 21 days. After malo-lactic fermentation in steel tanks at a controlled temperature of 20° C, the wine is aged in conical vats for a period of 46 months, followed by a further 3 months in steel before bottling. Only produced in years suitable for long aging, the wine has hints of ripe fruit and evolutive notes.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eViberti\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Viberti_La_Volta_Plot_and_castle.png?v=1718023511\" alt=\"\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Viberti_La_Volta_Plot_and_castle.png?v=1718023511\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003eLa Volta Castle and Viberti's plot on the left that supplies fruit for its La Volta Barolo Riserva\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eExpert reviews\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\"There can’t be too many 2016s coming as new releases now, though I have three from this somewhat under-sung producer in my glass today. I was going to taste a bunch of McLaren Vale Grenache, then thought, nah!, Nebbiolo is the go. Anyway, they have pulled a rabbit out of the hat in 2016, with La Volta. Succulent, ripe cherry and red fruits, all the almond and floral perfume. It’s dense, has chew, and delightful stony tannin, fragrance and intensity, clean, fresh and so mineral with a powerful finish of ripe tannin, spiced strawberry, and almond biscotti. A superb wine of verity and impact.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eDrink: 2023-203'5+.\"  \u003cb\u003eGary Walsh, The Wine Front - 96 points\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\"Bright deep red. Multidimensional nose offers red cherry, redcurrant, violet, rose, brown spices, and balsamic oils, all lifted by a mineral topnote. Then also floral in the mouth, with the gorgeous inner-mouth perfume providing noteworthy lift to the precise and energetic flavours of red and blue fruits and minerals. Utterly silky in texture and magically light on its feet for a Riserva, the red and dark fruit and floral flavours carry through to an extremely long, vibrant finish featuring polished tannins. Like all the better wines from the La Volta cru, one of the most underrated in all Barolo, this is a magically well-balanced Barolo that is at once seamless and delicate, with an understated but kaleidoscopic quality to this beautiful wine’s floral personality. Best Barolo from Viberti in years. Drinking window: 2024-2034.\"  \u003cstrong\u003eIan D'Agata, Terroir Sense - 95 points and Top Italian Wines of 2023\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\"\u003cspan\u003eThe 2016 Barolo Riserva La Volta (with 3,070 bottles and 127 magnums made) opens to a darkened garnet hue and bold textural richness. The wine's structure and tannins are what stand out most at this young stage and give us hope for a long aging trajectory ahead. This Riserva is redolent of black fruit, plum, tea leaf and black rose.\u003c\/span\u003e Drink: \u003cspan\u003e2024 - 2038\u003c\/span\u003e.\"\u003cb\u003e  Monica Larner, Wine Advocate - 95 points \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAwards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIan D'Agata - Top Italian Wines of 2023\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePiedmont Nebbiolo\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Nebbiolo_Grape.png?v=1716280198\" alt=\"\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Nebbiolo_Grape.png?v=1716280198\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Piedmont wine region is located in the north-west corner of Italy. The name Piemonte means \"at the foot of the mountains\", the mountains in this case being the Alps. Piedmont is just Italy’s seventh largest wine region, but what it lacks in quantity it makes up for in quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePiedmont is famous for its Nebbiolo wines. Nebbiolo, the most exalted wine variety of Piedmont, gets its name from the Italian word for 'fog', \u003cem\u003enebbia\u003c\/em\u003e. During harvest, which generally takes place late in October, a deep, intense fog sets into the Langhe region where the Nebbiolo vineyards are located. The Nebbiolo heartland is the tiny Barolo production zone, a cluster of fog-prone hills around the village of the same name.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNebbiolo is early-budding, but also late-ripening. It needs good weather and lots of sunlight to achieve full ripeness, which is why the best vineyards for growing Nebbiolo are located on hillsides that are exposed to plenty of sunlight. Hence the suitability of the slopes of the Langhe hills near the town of Alba. Nebbiolo is only planted on the hills at an altitude above 250m, as fog hangs over lower vineyards for large parts of the day and there is no chance of making decent wine from this late-ripening variety if it is not exposed to maximum sunshine. The lower vineyards are generally planted with Barbera or Dolcetto.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSoil types also play a crucial role. Nebbiolo thrives on calcareous marl, a lime-rich mudstone that is found on the right bank of the Tanaro River, home to the famous appellations Barolo and Barbaresco. Nebbiolo grapes grown on other soil types tend to make wines that are not as aromatic and elegant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNebbiolo produces a full-bodied wine with high levels of acidity and tannin, particularly when it is young - at odds with its light colour. It also has great aging potential – particularly the Barbaresco and Barolo wines that garner the highest price tags.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe two highest classifications of wines produced from Nebbiolo in Piedmont are the DOCG denomination \u003cem\u003eDenominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita\u003c\/em\u003e (Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin) and the DOC denomination \u003cem\u003eDenominazione d'Origine Controllata\u003c\/em\u003e (Denomination of Controlled Origin).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn total, there are seventeen DOCG and DOC wines made in Piedmont. The five applicable to Nebbiolo are Barolo DOCG, Barbaresco DOCG and Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC (which must be made from 100% Nebbiolo) and Roero DOCG and Langhe Nebbiolo DOC (which must be made from at least 85% Nebbiolo).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/LangheMap_0ced5874-ccd1-4704-8851-8597023cfb1c_600x600.jpg?v=1696556901\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/LangheMap_0ced5874-ccd1-4704-8851-8597023cfb1c_600x600.jpg?v=1696556901\" data-mce-style=\"margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 16px; margin-left: auto; float: none; display: block;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDOCG and DOC Nebbiolo production zones in Piedmont\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo DOCG\u003c\/strong\u003e is perhaps the most famous Nebbiolo wine. Its name derives from the small town in the heart of the Barolo production zone, but it is produced in eleven communes around the larger hillside towns in the area. Barolo DOCG wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo and must age in oak for at least 18 months with a total age time of 38 months before release. Barolo Riserva DOCG must \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eage in oak for at least 18 months with a total age time of 62 months before \u003c\/span\u003ebeing released.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarbaresco DOCG\u003c\/strong\u003e is often described as more elegant than the more powerful Barolo, the 'queen' to Barolo’s 'king'. Barbaresco DOCG wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo. The production zone is tiny, a third of the size of Barolo, and has less stringent regulations. Barbaresco DOCG wines must age in oak for at least 9 months with a total age time of 26 months before release. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarbaresco Riserva DOCG must \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eage in oak for at least 9 months with a total age time of 50 months before \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ebeing released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNebbiolo d’Alba DOC\u003c\/strong\u003e is produced between Barolo and Barbaresco. Near the two zones the wines are full-bodied and age very well. Further away, they’re delicate and best drunk young. This wine can also come from grapes from Barola or Barbaresco not quite up to heavenly standards, such as grapes from new vineyards in the famous hills or from less exalted vineyards. Nebbiolo d’Alba DOC wines must be made from 100% Nebbiolo and \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emust age for at least 12 months before release. Nebbiolo d’Alba Superiore DOC wines must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 18 months before being released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRoero DOCG i\u003c\/strong\u003es a little known zone just north of Barolo within the Langhe. Roero DOCG wines must be at least 95% Nebbiolo and must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 20 months before release. Roero Riserva DOCG must age in oak for at least 6 months with a total age time of 32 months before being released.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLanghe Nebbiolo DOC\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003efalls in (is a subset of) one of the largest wine zones in Piedmont, Langhe DOC. \u003c\/span\u003eThe Langhe DOC covers 54 communes of the Langhe and Roero hills. Varietally focused wines can include the name Langhe plus the grape. All told, there are 23 different forms of Langhe wines with Langhe Nebbiolo being just one. Langhe Nebbiolo DOC wines can come from anywhere in the Langhe i.e. from any of the four zones above (Barolo, Barbaresco, Nebbiolo d’Alba or Roero). Langhe Nebbiolo DOC must be at least 85% Nebbiolo and al\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003elow for up to 15% of other indigenous grape varieties, such as \u003c\/span\u003esuch as Barbera and Dolcetto. In practice most are made entirely from Nebbiolo.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: none;\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont_Nebbiolo_Serralunga_d_Alba_1024x1024.png?v=1716562793\" data-mce-style=\"float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont_Nebbiolo_Serralunga_d_Alba_1024x1024.png?v=1716562793\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSerralunga d'Alba in Piedmont, where the Nebbiolo grape is king\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Barolo Landscape\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696167899\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696167899\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo, often referred to as the \"King of Wines\", is a powerful and full-bodied red wine made from Nebbiolo grapes. Barolo is special due to its unique combination of factors – its terroir, the Nebbiolo grape, and its winemaking traditions. The zone's spectacular terroir, a multitude of distinctive microclimates and soil compositions, is ideal for growing Nebbiolo. Furthermore, the centuries-old winemaking traditions add to the allure, resulting in a wine that is complex, full-bodied, and capable of aging gracefully for many years.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Barolo zone (the regulated production area) is a relatively small area in Piemont. It is 11km north to south and just over 8km at its widest point. Barolo comprises 11 different communes around the larger towns in the area - some of the more famous towns or villages are Barolo, Montforte d’Alba, La Morra and Serralunga d’Alba. These communes each have unique geography, soil, climate and altitude. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBarolo largely consists of three chains of hills separated by two north-south valleys, the Central Valley and Serralunga Valley. The communes are dotted up and down the twin valleys and hilly ranges that offer a huge variety of terroir.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 3D flyover of Barola below is worth watching to appreciate the compexity of the topography, the countless number of small hills and the changes that occur in the space of a few metres. However, for anyone wishing to gain a full appreciation of what Barolo looks like in the flesh, \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAlessandro Masnaghetti's\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff00ff;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #ff00ff;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" title=\"Alessandro Masnaghetti's Barolo MGA 360\" style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBarolo MGA 360\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" title=\"Alessandro Masnaghetti's Barolo MGA 360\" style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/www.barolomga360.it\/en\/\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e°\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eprovides a superb digital replica of the landscape.\u003cbr\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003ca title=\"Barolo Vineyards in 3D flyover\" href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/HQmwjRhY-SA\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/HQmwjRhY-SA\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo3Dflyover_1facdbb5-6f80-4e50-8b28-4084fbf68997_240x240.png?v=1696134906\" alt=\"Barolo Vineyards in 3D flyover\" style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolo3Dflyover_1facdbb5-6f80-4e50-8b28-4084fbf68997_240x240.png?v=1696134906\" data-mce-style=\"float: none; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Click on image to play 3D flyover\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Communes and 'Cru' Vineyards of Barolo\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThere are 11 approved communes in the Barolo production zone. \u003c\/span\u003eOver 87% of Barolo is produced in the original five and largest communes; La Morra, Barolo, Castiglione Falletto, Serralunga d'Alba and Monforte d'Alba.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe remaining six communes are Novello, Verduno, Cherasco, Roddi, Grinzane Cavour and Diano d’Alba (which is planted \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emore to Dolcetto than Nebbiolo). Interestingly, the first two of these are home to two of the most in-demand vineyards in the entire region; Monvigliero in Verduno and Ravera in Novello.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLa Morra and Barolo are the two main communes in the western part of the zone, also known as the Central Valley. The soils are Tortonian - a fertile, compact, calcareous marl that produces graceful wines with more florals and fruit. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Serralunga Valley to the east has Serravalian (also referred to as Helvetian) soils which are heavy in sandstone and sand, producing structured bold wines with high tannins. Within this area you will find the famous communes of Castiglione Falleto, Serralunga d’Alba and Monforte d’Alba.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Communes of Barolo\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolloCommunes_600x600_c9ff96db-54e3-47dd-bcea-805b78acc453_600x600.jpg?v=1716186871\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/PiedmontBarolloCommunes_600x600_c9ff96db-54e3-47dd-bcea-805b78acc453_600x600.jpg?v=1716186871\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommunes of Barolo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo drinkers had become familiar over the years with the most recognizable of the 11 commune names appearing on the labels; Castiglione Falletto and Monforte d'Alba, for example. However, i\u003c\/span\u003en the ‘90s the world rediscovered Barolo, whose wines bore little comparison to the rough wines of the past. Barolo began selling out, prices increased and so did the surface area of vineyards. With new producers came a rise in new labels and new ways to distinguish one from the other. They began personalising their labels with more than just the commune; they used the names of the vineyards, villages, and people. This desire to differentiate quickly got out of control, and as has been the case in many other wine regions, the consumer became confused.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe first priority was to create order, to delineate and define the varying wine-growing areas. To make it official, the Barolo Consorzio, in cooperation with the province of Cuneo and the various Barolo villages, undertook the challenging task of regulating the use of vineyard and zonal names on labels. By 2010, after several years of hard work, they came up with a list of geographical designations that are allowed to appear on the Barolo label. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThese geographical designations or MGA (\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emenzioni geografiche aggiuntive\u003c\/em\u003e or additional geographic designations) refer to specific delimited areas of production and can be seen as the equivalent of the French term cru. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn total, there are 181 geographical designations, of which 11 are communal (one for each commune; e.g. \u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo del Comune di Serralunga d’Alba, Barolo del Comune di La Morra,\u003c\/em\u003e etc.). Wines may be labeled with one of these MGA provided the fruit comes from the stated designation. \u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe MGAs – it’s important to emphasize this – do not imply superiority in a qualitative sense. A Barolo carrying the name of an MGA on the label is not necessarily better or more valuable than a Barolo with another name or even with no name at all, although for many producers Barolo wines with an MGA usually represent the most prestigious wines in their lists.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMost of the 170 MGA refer to a single vineyard such as Cannubi or Brunate, however as there are a number of exceptions, the MGA term cannot technically be defined as a vineyard. Bussia, for example, in the commune of Monforte d'Alba and the second largest MGA at 738 acres, is actually a large hill made up of several vineyards. \u003c\/span\u003eThe name of single-vineyard wines within\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e their eponymous MGA \u003c\/span\u003eare permitted on the label. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePoderi Aldo Conterno, one of Barolo’s greatest producers, makes wines from three separate vineyards situated within the Bussia MGA; Colonello, Cicala and Romirasco.\u003c\/span\u003e  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003ca title=\"Barolo MGA or Cru Official Map\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/uc?export=download\u0026amp;confirm=no_antivirus\u0026amp;id=1jgpl-l1jvpsy2Y1MQwwiSZmf95R51IaL\" data-mce-href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/uc?export=download\u0026amp;confirm=no_antivirus\u0026amp;id=1jgpl-l1jvpsy2Y1MQwwiSZmf95R51IaL\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/BaroloCrusMap_33a4cb8d-4b17-47ab-b217-9f75dfb93dfe_600x600.png?v=1696144900\" alt=\"Barolo MGA or Cru Map\" style=\"float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/BaroloCrusMap_33a4cb8d-4b17-47ab-b217-9f75dfb93dfe_600x600.png?v=1696144900\" data-mce-style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClick map to enlarge 🔍\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA number of the MGA extend across more than one Commune. The Cerequio MGA, for example, is located between the towns of La Morra and Barolo and extends across the boundary of the two communes. It is one of the most prestigious vineyards within the appellation and a truly stunning landscape – it is so revered that it has been nicknamed the \"Riviera of the Langhe.\" Grapes from both sides are of extremely high-quality and become great wines, but acquiring land with the southwestern exposure is considered la crème de la crème of the MGA. Therefore, it is no coincidence that the labels that have made Barolo history are all from here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStrange as it may seem, European laws prevent the use of two or more MGA names together on the label, thus effectively stopping a noble and well-documented tradition of Barolo obtained by blending various vineyards. However, if the MGAs are situated in the same commune, the label may specify \"Barolo del Comune di Barolo\" or \"Barolo del Comune di La Morra\" and so on. Although contradictory, the same law that prevents use of two or more MGAs on the label allows the producer to add up to 15% of Barolo obtained from a second MGA to a Barolo with an MGA stated on the label.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe proper term for a vineyard is \u003cem\u003evigna\u003c\/em\u003e, which can also appear on the label. Two well-known examples are Poderi Oddero Barolo Bussia Vigna Mondoca and Bruno Giacosa Vigna Le Rocche Barolo Falletto. Note that the term vigna does not have to be used as an identifier – Aldo Conterno does not label his separate Barolos with this descriptor.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA brief summary of the most important communes and crus in the Barolo production zone follows.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLa Morra\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"La Morra Commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-LaMorra_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696147933\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-LaMorra_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696147933\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSituated at the northern end of the Central Valley, La Morra ranks first among all the communes as far as most acreage of Nebbiolo planted for production of Barolo as well as number of wineries (62); it is tied with Serralunga d’Alba for most MGA (39). Several of the highest vineyards in the zone are located here at elevations of more than 420m.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLa Morra is known for Barolo with rounder, more gentle tannins and more floral aromatics (especially from the Brunate MGA), as opposed to wines from Serralunga and Monforte d'Alba. The wines from the Rocche dell’Annunziata site are among the most complex, elegant and structured in all the commune.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRocche dell’Annunziata, La Serra, Arborina, Conca, Brunate and Cerequio (these last two are primarily situated in La Morra, with a smaller part of these sites also in the commune of Barolo).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRenato Ratti, Roberto Voerzio, Poderi Oddero, Elio Altare, Fratelli Revello, Marcarini, Mauro Molino, Mauro Veglio, Trediberri, Aurelio Settimo\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBarolo\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Barolo Commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Barolo_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696148642\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Barolo_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696148642\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSituated at the southern end of the Central Valley, t\u003c\/span\u003ehis commune lends its name to the wine produced in the Barolo Zone. The wines here are a mix of styles, with a typical Barolo from here being rich in tannins with a slight austerity. The most famous vineyard here is Cannubi, which contains both Tortonian and Serravalian soils, creating wines of great complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eCannubi, Sarmassa, Bricco delle Viole, Terlo, Liste, Castellero\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eBartolo Mascarello, Marchesi di Barolo, Scarzello, Borgogno, Damilano, Giuseppe Rinaldi, Francesco Rinaldi, Giacamo Brezza, Luciano Sandrone\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMonforte d'Alba\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Monforte d'Alba\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Monforted_Alba_Barolo_52bdc4ed-ac7b-4dfb-b7e3-124cbc5d2daa_1024x1024.png?v=1696165973\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Monforted_Alba_Barolo_52bdc4ed-ac7b-4dfb-b7e3-124cbc5d2daa_1024x1024.png?v=1696165973\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSituated at the far southeastern reaches of the zone, Monforte d’Alba is home to long-aging, powerful examples of Barolo. There are only 11 MGA, but 53 wineries here; one reason for this is the large number of producers that make a Bussia Barolo. The wines here are generally quite ripe, and while there are numerous producers that take a modern approach in the cellar (e.g. Domenico Clerico), there are some such as Elio Grasso that specialize in more traditional examples of Barolo, with their Ginestra Casa Maté and Gavarini Chiniera Barolos.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eGinestra, Bussia, Mosconi, Castelletto, Le Coste di Monforte\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eElio Grasso, Domenico Clerico, Poderi Aldo Conterno, Giovanni Manzone, Josetta Saffirio, Giacomo Conterno, Giacomo Fenocchio, Amalia Cascina in Langa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSerralunga d’Alba \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Serralunga d’Alba commune\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Serralungad_Alba_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155302\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Serralungad_Alba_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155302\"\u003eSituated north of Monforte d’Alba, Serralunga d’Alba marks the eastern border of the Barolo zone. If a classic syle of Barolo combines deep structure and longevity, then the Barolos of Serralunga are certainly among the most classic. These wines require time, but offers great rewards at their peak. Yet, you can find very approachable examples of Barolo from here; the offerings of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eBarolo Comune di Serralunga d’Alba\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eare often quite open upon release, displaying the rich fruit and tannins of Serralunga in a more refined manner. These are among the best values of the entire Barolo zone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs much as any commune, Serralunga is known for its remarkable assortment of vineyards, including Lazzarito, Vignarionda, Falletto of Bruno Giacosa, and Francia, the source of the celebrated Monfortino Barolo of Giacomo Conterno.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eFalletto, Francia, Lazzarito, Vignarionda, Margheria, Cerretta, Prapò, Parafada\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eFontanafredda, Ettore Germano, Paolo Manzone, Giovanni Rosso, Schiavenza, Palladino, Luigi Pira\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCastiglione Falletto\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-CastiglioneFalletto_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155789\" alt=\"Castiglione Falletto\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-CastiglioneFalletto_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696155789\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe commune of Castiglione Falletto is located to the west of Serralunga d’Alba, north of Monforte d’Alba and east of La Morra. The soils here are mixed with a good percentage of sand, resulting in wines that are often more fragrant and less tannic than those from Serralunga and Monforte. A typical Castiglione Falletto Barolo displays red cherry and starwberry fruit aromas and flavors along with distinct red spice notes. Rocche di Castiglione is arguably the best known site here, along with Villero (the source of Vietti\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eriserva\u003c\/em\u003e), Bricco Rocche of Ceretto, and Monprivato, this last made famous by Giuseppe Mascarello.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRocche di Castiglione, Bricco Rocche, Villero, Bricco Boschis, Parussi, Fiasco, Pernanno, Monprivato, Montanello\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eVietti, Paolo Scavino, Cavallotto, Monchiero Fratelli, Giovanni Sordo, Livia Fontanai\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVerduno\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Verduno_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696156532\" alt=\"Verduno Commune\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-Verduno_Barolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696156532\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVerduno represents the far northwest reaches of the Barolo zone, and is known for wines that combine excellent ripeness with subtle spice, generally with mid-weight tannins. Clearly Verduno is most famous for the Monvigliero vineyard, situated just east of the town of Verduno, ranging from 220-310m above sea level. While most of this commune’s producers make a Monvigliero Barolo, recently many vintners throughout the Barolo zone have also added a Barolo from this vineyard - this includes Paolo Scavino, Giovanni Sordo and Terre del Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eMonvigliero, San Lorenzo di Verduno, Boscatto, Massara\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eBurlotto, Fratelli Alessandria, Bel Colle, Castello di Verduno\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNovello\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-NovelloBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696157519\" alt=\"Novello Commune\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Piedmont-NovelloBarolo_1024x1024.png?v=1696157519\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe commune of Novello is located at the far southwestern corner of the Barolo zone and has one of the coolest climates of any commune, thanks to the winds from the Cottian Alps to the south. The wines of Novello were among the most unrelenting years ago, but because of climate change, a typical Barolo from Novello is now riper and much more elegant. Clearly the interest in this commune over the past decade can be traced to the work of Valter Fissore and his wife Nadia, at their Elvio Cogno estate, with wines from the Ravera vineyard. Recently several renowned producers such as Vietti and Paolo Scavino have also released a Ravera Barolo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Vineyards:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eRavera, Sottocastello di Novello, Cerviano-Merli, Panerole, Corini-Palaretta\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTop Producers:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eElvio Cogno, Ca’Viola, Le Strette, Marenco\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eLa Volta\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/La_Volto_MGA_1024x1024.png?v=1718019612\" alt=\"La Volta cru in Barolo\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/La_Volto_MGA_1024x1024.png?v=1718019612\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" class=\"MsoNormal\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003eThe La Volta cru in Barolo showing Viberti's two plots (outlined in solid red): \u003cem\u003eFrom \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBarolo MGA 360° \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe LA Volta cru in the commune of Barolo lies below the deserted and crumbling Castle of La Volta which towers over the village of Barolo. Viberti owns two plots covering an area of 2.5 hectares in this magnificent landscape, one of which is historic and one which was recently acquired. They are located between 380 and 400 m above sea level and lie on clayey soils with evident tufaceous veins. The grapes coming from the historic steeper northern plot are used for the Barolo Buon Padre, and in particularly good years, for the La Volta reserve. The new flatter southern vineyard is used entirely for the production of Langhe Nebbiolo. The Nebbiolo wines that come from La Volta are soft, with an intense fragrance and sweet and round tannin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" alt=\"La Volta cru in Barolo and the vineyards of Viberti Giovanni\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Viberti_La_Volta_1024x1024.jpg?v=1718260525\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Viberti_La_Volta_1024x1024.jpg?v=1718260525\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" class=\"MsoNormal\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe La Volta cru in Barolo (highlighted on the left) and the vineyards of Viberti Giovanni (highlighted on the right)\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe winery\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" alt=\"Giovanni Viberti\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Viberti_1024x1024.png?v=1717737954\" data-mce-style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Viberti_1024x1024.png?v=1717737954\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eViberti Giovanni was founded in the early 1900s when Antonio Viberti, an innkeeper and restauranteur, purchased the Locanda del Buon Padre with an adjoining vineyard in the village of Vergne, located in the commune of Barolo. In 1923, he began producing wines exclusively for the patrons of the family restaurant, Trattoria al Buon Padre, from Dolcetto, Barbera and Nebbiolo grown in the estate vineyard. In 1955, Cavalier\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: Raleway; color: #7a7e82; background: #EFEFEF;\" data-mce-style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: Raleway; color: #7a7e82; background: #EFEFEF;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003estarted selling his Dolcetto d'Alba, Barbera d'Alba and Barolo at local markets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIn 1967, Antonio's son, Giovanni, joined the family business to manage the inn and adjoining cellar. A new winery was constructed and the vineyard expanded. Supported by his wife Maria, head chef of the family and restaurant kitchen, the winery and restaurant went from strength to strength. Their wines were promoted by the inn's constant visitors from neighbouring Switzerland, Germany and Austria, and in 1974, the first Viberti wines were exported to\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: Raleway; color: #7a7e82; background: #EFEFEF;\" data-mce-style=\"font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: Raleway; color: #7a7e82; background: #EFEFEF;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003esouthern Europe to satisfy the growing demand outside Piedmont.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eGiovanni's eldest son, Gianluca, joined the family business in 1989 after graduating from the Enological School of Alba. The winery started bottling single vineyard Barolos, introduced new winemaking techniques and began exporting to the emerging US market.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eIn 2004, Claudio, Giovanni’s third son, joined his brother at the winery. He oversaw the start of a substantial investment in Barbera, replanting the vines with much tighter spacing and dropping yields to produce higher quality Barbera. A new flagship wine was born, Barbera d’Alba La Gemella, named \u003cspan\u003ein honour of Maria who was a twin and a major driving force behind the family's success\u003c\/span\u003e. Maria had insisted over the years that the family keep making Barbaera d'Alba and often lamented how many of the beautiful local Barbera vineyards had been replanted with the more profitable variety Nebbiolo. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eClaudio took over management of the family winery in 2008 while Gianluca, after more than twenty years tending the family vineyards, left to establish the new Casino Bric 460 winery nearby. Claudio acquired new vineyards in Barolo and negotiated contracts with growers in Monforte d'Alba and Verduno to supply grapes for the historic Barolo Buon Padre label. Investment in new vineyards for the growth of Barbera Gemella continued.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eToday, Viberti produces 120,000 bottles a year and exports to over 25 countries worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Vineyards\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe estate vineyards are the beating heart of production and are managed with extreme care and attention to detail. They are mainly located on the west side of the City of Barolo, at an altitude of \u003cspan style=\"mso-spacerun: yes;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e400 - 500 meters above sea level. Nebbiolo, Barbera and Dolcetto, together with a tiny amount of Chardonnay are grown.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eViberti own eight vineyards in the commune of Barolo, in the crus of Bricco Delle Viole, San Pietro, La Volta, Fossati, Terlo, Albarella, Ravera and San Ponzio. In addition, they source grapes from vineyards in the Monvigliero cru of Verduno and Perno cru of Monforte d'Alba (refer to the map below).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReserve Barolos are produced from the crus of Bricco Delle Viole, San Pietro, La Volta and Monvigliero. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003eThe historical Barolo cuvée Buon Padre (first produced in 1927) is today a skillful assemblage of the 10 crus across the communes of Barolo, Monforte d'Alba and Verduno.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cimg style=\"float: none;\" alt=\"The vineyards of Viberti in the commune of Barolo\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Viberti_Vineyards_1024x1024.jpg?v=1718341341\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(128, 128, 128);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe vineyards of Viberti in the commune of Barolo: \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eO\u003c\/span\u003e are estate-owned vineyards, \u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\" data-mce-style=\"color: rgb(255, 42, 0);\"\u003eP\u003c\/span\u003e are contract vineyards (grapes are purchased)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Canterbury Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45053669376241,"sku":null,"price":157.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0642\/3098\/1873\/files\/Viberti-Giovanni-La-Volta-Barolo-Riserva-DOCG-2016.jpg?v=1718066586"}],"url":"https:\/\/canterburywines.au\/collections\/barolo-wines.oembed","provider":"Canterbury Wines","version":"1.0","type":"link"}