Exceptionally powerful, masculine and tannic Barolo Riserva from the Castelletto cru vineyard in Monforte d’Alba

Bursting with fresh aromas of cranberry and rose, this well-made Barolo from Monforte d’Alba makes an excellent addition to any cellar. Thanks to its high acidity and grippy tannins, it will age comfortably for a long time.

The vineyard is planted on the upper section of a steep ridge of hills separating the communes of Monforte and Serralunga. As it’s located so high up, it’s well ventilated. It’s also planted sori del mattino – facing south-south-east, so vines see more of the morning sun. These conditions are very important for the Nebbiolo grape, as it needs a lot of sun – it buds early and the ripening season extends into the third week of October. Castelletto has always been one of Barolo’s cru vineyards, and in 2010 it was named an MGA – “additional geographical unit” – appearing on the official map.

Winemaking

Long fermentation on the skins for 45 days, immediately followed by MLF. This wine is then aged in large oak tonneaux for a long period of 40 months, to refine and soften the harsh tannins without overpowering the flavour with oak. This is more than double the minimum 18 months required by the Barolo “Disciplinare”. After that, the wine matures for another 22 months in bottle in the ageing cellar.

Tasting notes

Medium garnet colour in the glass. This wine is bursting with aromas of fresh cranberry and powerful, enveloping notes of red rose, liquorice and fruit candies. This is complemented by hints of forest floor, tar, and a delicate touch of cedar wood from careful – though very long – oak ageing. While this Riserva is already magical in the glass, it’s still developing, and the strong tannins will continue to evolve over time. You could drink it now, but remember that it will continue to evolve the longer you hold it.

Ageing potential

20 years

Awards

Decanter World Wine Awards 2022 – Silver Medal (2015 vintage) | Gambero Rosso 2022 – Three Glasses (Tre Bicchieri) Award (2015 vintage) | JamesSuckling – 93 points (2015 vintage) | The Wine Hunter – Gold (2015 vintage) | Mundus Vini, Spring 2022 Tasting – Gold Medal (2015 vintage) | Vini Buoni d’Italia 2022 – 4 stars (2015 vintage) | WinesCritic.com December 2020 – 91 points (2015 vintage) | Bibenda Guide, 2022 – 4 Grappoli