Fine wines for collectors & discerning drinkers

Transcription

1 Fine wines for collectors & discerning drinkers 8 Royal Opera Arcade, London SW1Y 4UY

2 Barolo and Piemonte 2014 The wines have never been more in demand as an increasingly global audience of consumers discovers just how captivating Barolo and Barbaresco can be. Antonio Galloni As Mr. Galloni states, the popularity of wines from Piedmont is growing and we can attest to the fact that it seems be growing very quickly. Maybe the series of great vintages that the region has enjoyed over the past decade has something to do with it is another good vintage in Piemonte. Although not a blockbuster vintage like 2010 or 2013, or the upcoming 2015, it is nonetheless a vintage where the top producers crafted excellent wines. However, the growing season was difficult and although this does not force the quality lower, it certainly forces the quantity lower. There is not much wine this vintage and the best producers (all of which are available in this offer) usually make even less wine as they constrain themselves by selecting only the best fruit. The volume produced of many of the wines below will have been 30-50% less than an average vintage. Galloni told us: Sadly, a number of wines were not bottled at all. Cavallotto s Bricco Boschis was one of the epicenters of hail in As a result, the Cavallotto family bottled only Langhe Nebbiolo and not a single drop of Barolo. Fratelli Alessandria did not bottle their Barolo San Lorenzo. Vietti s Luca Currado did not bottle his Barolo Brunate. The best of that juice went into the Barolo Castiglione. At G.B. Burlotto Fabio Alessandria made the same decision with his Barolo Acclivi. Ceretto did not bottle their Barolo Brunate or Barolo Bricco Rocche, opting instead to use that juice to bolster their straight Barolo. As has now happened more than once in cold, late-ripening years, Roberto Conterno decided to skip making his Barolo Cascina Francia and will only release a Monfortino from his family s Francia vineyard to go along with the Barolo Cerretta. Other producers, including Elio Grasso, Brovia and Parusso, chose to bottle a single Barolo instead of vineyard-designates. Although there are a lesser number of wines, and less bottles of wines made, the bottles that are made and that we chose for you here are very good and should bring much enjoyment to canny buyers. These wines will drink earlier than the vintages on either side, but still age for a decade or more. However, we do not recommend 2014s across the board, as some wines from lesser producers are light and washed out. None of the ones we have chosen are like this.

3 I am happy to report that 2014 offers a flurry of wonderful surprises, some of which may well sweep you off your feet. The 2014 vintage is for those who are hopelessly in love with Nebbiolo not Barolo per se, but Nebbiolo. Monica Larner We have a few new additions for this vintage as we lament we could not include anything from Cavallotto or Ceretto. We have however added top cru Barolos from Voerzio and Aldo Conterno. We know these two producers have a loyal following and have decided to offer them too. We are also offering small amounts of recently released Riserva wines from older vintages, as well as a few wines from the great 2013 vintage. Don t overlook the Langhe Nebbiolos from great producers offered below which are cheap and drink well young! We have also added two producers from the Alto Piemonte, a distinct region which has traditionally made Nebbiolo based wines. These wines show even more similarity with burgundies and offer incredible value. We urge you to try them, and we are certain we will be offering other producers from that region in the coming years. Finally, we love wines made from the other great varieties of Piemonte, namely Barbera, Dolcetto and the serious Freisa. Pelaverga lovers will also find some buried in the offer as well as some white Arneis. Prices are continuing to rise and somewhat steeply, especially for the most in-demand producers. We must remind the drinkers out there that the production of these wines is small with most top producers making 20,000-50,000 bottles at most. As demand rises across the world, and we can certify that demand is increasing from Asia, these wines will get harder to get and prices will go much higher. Burgundy lovers know how prices have changed so much over the past decade and this will most likely happen here too.

4 If you like cool-vintage Barolo as opposed to warm-vintage Barolo, you will love The only problem I see is the difficulty of finding the few bottles out there. Monica Larner We keep telling all fine wine lovers to stock up on Piemonte wines as they will deliver incredible drinking pleasure at relatively affordable prices. Prices are fair and will only be higher next year. Please register your interest quickly to avoid disappointment. We will accommodate all those interested the best we can. If you have any questions or would like recommendations, we are more than happy to discuss any wines from this region dear to our hearts. Cheers! Gilles, Tom & James

5 Recommendations: Don t Miss (KEY *) Everyone should be buying these wines: Case Bottle Price/cs Producer Wine Recommended Vintage size size GBP Brovia Barolo Ūnĭo * cl G. B. Burlotto Langhe Freisa * cl Chiara Boschis Barolo Via Nuova * cl G. Conterno Barbera d'alba Vigna Francia * cl Poderi Oddero Barolo Bussia Soprana Vigna Mondoca * cl Sandrone Barolo Le Vigne * cl G.D Vajra Barolo Bricco delle Viole * cl Best value Wines (KEY BV ) Great quality producers with high scores and affordable prices: Producer Wine Recommended Vintage Case size Bottle size Price/cs GBP Antoniotti Bramaterra BV cl G. B. Burlotto Barolo BV cl Diego Morra Barolo Monvigliero BV cl Elio Grasso Barolo BV cl Poderi Oddero Barolo BV cl Paitin Barbaresco, Sori Paitin BV cl Palladino Barolo Parafada BV cl Barolo Ornato BV cl Other varieties Index (KEY o ) Producer Wine Recommended Vintage Case size Bottle size Price/cs GBP Bartolo Mascarello Dolcetto d'alba o cl Brovia Barbera d'alba Ciabot del Fi o cl Barbera d'alba Sori del Drago o cl Dolcetto d'alba Vignavillej o cl Langhe Freisa La Villerina Secca o cl Roero Arneis Bianco o cl G. B. Burlotto Pelaverga di Verduno o cl Cappellano Barbera d'alba o cl Barolo Chinato o NV 1 75cl Diego Morra Pelaverga di Verduno o cl Dolcetto d'alba o cl G Mascarello Langhe Freisa Toetto o cl Paitin Barbera d Alba, Camp Olive o cl G Rinaldi Dolcetto d'alba o cl Sandrone Barbera d'alba o cl Dolcetto d'alba o cl 80.00

6 Table of Contents Index of all wines 1. Antoniotti 2. Aldo Conterno 3. Bartolo Mascarello 4. Brovia 5. G. B. Burlotto 6. Cappellano 7. Chiara Boschis 8. Giacomo Conterno 9. Diego Morra 10. Elio Grasso 11. Giuseppe Mascarello 12. Nervi-Conterno 13. Poderi Oddero 14. Paitin 15. Palladino 16. Giuseppe Rinaldi 17. Sandrone 18. G.D Vajra 19. Vietti 20. Roberto Voerzio

7 Producer Wine Recommended Vintage Case size Bottle size IB Case Offer Price GBP Antoniotti Bramaterra BV cl Aldo Barolo Bussia cl Conterno Barolo Bussia Cicala cl Barolo Bussia Colonello cl Barolo Bussia Romirasco cl Bartolo Barolo A cl 1, Mascarello Barolo cl 1, Barolo cl 3, Dolcetto d'alba o cl Brovia Barolo Ūnĭo * cl Barolo Ūnĭo cl Barolo Riserva 150 Anniversario cl Barbera d'alba Ciabot del Fi o cl Barbera d'alba Sori del Drago o cl Dolcetto d'alba Vignavillej o cl Langhe Freisa La Villerina Secca o cl Roero Arneis Bianco o cl G. B. Burlotto Barolo BV cl Barolo Cannubi A cl Barolo Monvigliero A cl 1, Langhe Nebbiolo cl Langhe Freisa * cl Pelaverga di Verduno o cl Cappellano Barolo Piè Rupestris A cl Barolo Piè Rupestris A cl Barolo Piè Franco A cl 1, Barolo Piè Franco A cl Barbera d'alba o cl Barolo Chinato o NV 1 75cl Chiara Barolo Via Nuova * cl Boschis Barolo Via Nuova cl Barolo Cannubi cl Barolo Cannubi cl Barolo Mosconi cl Barolo Mosconi cl Wines marked A are only available on allocation please let us know your requirements. All prices are In Bond (excluding duty and VAT) and offered subject to remaining unsold

8 Producer Wine Recommended Vintage Case size Bottle size IB Case Offer Price GBP G. Conterno Barolo Cerretta A cl 1, Barolo Cerretta A cl Barbera d'alba Vigna Francia * cl Barbera d'alba Vigna Francia cl Barbera Cerretta cl Diego Barolo cl Morra Barolo Monvigliero BV cl Langhe Nebbiolo cl Pelaverga di Verduno o cl Dolcetto d'alba o cl Elio Barolo BV cl Grasso Barolo cl Giuseppe Barolo Villero cl Mascarello Barolo Santo Stefano di Perno cl Barolo Monprivato cl Langhe Freisa Toetto o cl Nervi Gattinara cl Conterno Vigna Valferana cl Vigna Valferana cl Vigna Molsino cl Vigna Molsino cl Vigna Molsino cl Poderi Barolo BV cl Oddero Barolo Rocche di Castiglione cl Barolo Brunate cl Barolo Bussia Soprana Vigna Mondoca * cl Barolo Bussia Soprana Vigna Mondoca cl Barolo Vignarionda Reserva A cl Barolo Vignarionda Reserva A cl Paitin Barbaresco, Serraboella cl Barbaresco, Sori Paitin BV cl Barbaresco, Vecchie Vigne cl Nebbiolo d Alba, Ca Veja cl Barbera d Alba, Camp Olive o cl Wines marked A are only available on allocation please let us know your requirements. All prices are In Bond (excluding duty and VAT) and offered subject to remaining unsold

9 Producer Wine Recommended Vintage Case size Bottle size IB Case Offer Price GBP Palladino Barolo Serralunga d'alba cl Barolo Ornato BV cl Barolo Parafada BV cl Barolo San Bernardo Riserva cl G Rinaldi Barolo Brunate A cl Barolo Brunate A cl 2, Barolo Brunate A cl Barolo Tre Tine A cl Barolo Tre Tine A cl 2, Barolo Tre Tine A cl Dolcetto d'alba o cl Sandrone Barolo Aleste cl Barolo Aleste cl Barolo Le Vigne * cl Barolo Le Vigne cl Nebbiolo d'alba Valmaggiore cl Barbera d'alba o cl Dolcetto d'alba o cl G.D Vajra Barolo Bricco delle Viole * cl Barolo Bricco delle Viole cl Barolo Ravera cl Barolo Baudana (Luigi Baudana) cl Langhe Nebbiolo cl Vietti Barolo Castiglione cl Barolo Lazzarito cl Barolo Lazzarito cl Barolo Rocche cl Barolo Rocche cl Barolo Ravera cl Barolo Ravera cl Barolo Riserva Villero cl Barolo Riserva Villero cl Roberto Barolo Cerequio cl Voerzio Barolo La Serra cl Barolo Rocche dell'annunziata cl Wines marked A are only available on allocation please let us know your requirements. All prices are In Bond (excluding duty and VAT) and offered subject to remaining unsold

10 1: Odilio e Mattia Antoniotti Antoniotti s Bramaterra remains a sort of white rhino for collectors who ve grown enamoured of Alto Piemonte Nebbiolos. A new addition to our offer this year from the trendy Alto Piemonte (upper Piedmont). This historical region is making somewhat of a comeback. After years of neglect in the vineyards as all the workers moved to work in industrial regions, there is finally more interest in this traditional Nebbiolo region. See also Nervi-Conterno below. If you share our passion for truly handmade and unbelievably rare Italian reds, this is an exciting treat. Odilio Antoniotti s fabled and impossibly scarce Bramaterra. This is among the most pure, soulful, and deeply traditional Nebbiolo-based reds exported from Italy. We would happily drink any vintage of it over many far-pricier releases from Barolo and Barbaresco, if only the opportunity presented itself more often. This gem originates from a centuries-old, microscopic, organically-farmed 5-hectare family farm in one of the tiniest appellations in the foothills of the Italian Alps (the region of Bramaterra DOC is only 25 hectares in total). Most importantly, it is delicious juice. Imagine your favourite Barbaresco, vinified in a 1960 s-era Burgundy cellar and you ll start to understand what all the hype is about. It s also great value for the moment. Bramaterra per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Translucent ruby red with a garnet core transitioning to orange notes on the rim. This is what I want my Nebbiolo to look like! As with many of my favourite Nebbiolo-based reds from the northern reaches of Piedmont, Antoniotti s Bramaterra is always refreshing and balanced, like a great Burgundian red. It s a wine that demands food, and I can think of few more seductive companions than a risotto studded with wild mushrooms. This wine is a no-brainer addition to your cellar. Nebbiolo-based reds of this quality, at this price, don t come along very often!

11 2: Aldo Conterno With nostalgia, Giacomo recalls that when his father handed over the reins, he said only three words: "Fatemi bere bene" (or "let me drink well" in English). Another new addition to our range, Poderi Aldo Conterno has come a long way since the generational passage sparked by the death of Aldo Conterno in 2012 at 81 years old. The winery is managed today by Aldo's three sons: Franco, Stefano and Giacomo. When Aldo Conterno was at his winemaking heights in the 1990s, there were just a handful of estates operating in Monforte d'alba. Today, we can count up to 70 bottlers and producers. "New estates were coming up like mushrooms and this caused us to reflect," says Giacomo. "During that time, we made a firm decision not to make more than 80,000 bottles per year, even though our potential production could reach 500,000." Barolo Bussia c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) This Barolo is transparent in terms of its elegance and fragility. The wine offers a silky, fine texture that acts as a springboard to aromas of dried blueberry, cassis, menthol, herb and dried ginger. These aromas are ethereal and fleeting. This Barolo sees 26 months in oak and completes its final stage of integration in stainless steel before bottling. A fresh and fruit-filled mouthfeel makes for an open and immediate wine. 92 Points, Monica Larner, RobertParker.com Barolo Bussia Cicala c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) The 2014 Barolo Bussia Cicala comes from a 3.2-hectare parcel, and only 5,400 bottles are made despite the fact that there is the potential for higher volumes. Lovely rust and iron aromas on the nose, giving a sort of bloody note. Pure black cherry fruit and potent, aggressive tannic grip on the palate. This is such a great example of how extreme Nebbiolo can be in structure, yet still delivering plentiful perfume and fruit Points, Jancis Robinson.com

12 Barolo Bussia Colonnello c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Slightly more cooked fruit in style than their Cicala, perhaps slightly more open in terms of perfume, but still with the powerful, punchy tannic grip that coats the mouth. Lovely, nuanced length with spice, tar, black syrup and rich black fruits Points, Jancis Robinson.com Barolo Bussia Romirasco c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Only 4,620 bottles were made in order to preserve the highest quality obtainable. This is a complete and generous expression that starts off with a succession of black fruit aromas and continues to lighter notes of anise seed, tar, licorice and blue violet. The mouthfeel offers volume and texture with nicely integrated tannins. "In order to get this quality, fruit selection key," says Giacomo Conterno. Delicious cooked spices on the nose, with loads of black cherry, superb vanilla spice, chunky tannins and refreshing acidity. Layered and lengthy and monumental with a compelling array of complexity even now Points, Jancis Robinson.com

13 3. Bartolo Mascarello Maria Teresa Mascarello is one of the most quiet, unassuming growers in Barolo, yet her wines speak with distinction. Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com Galloni goes on to add: The 2014 is another in a series of stellar wines from this benchmark estate. Readers who enjoy classically built wines will adore the 2014 for its freshness, vivacity and mid-weight structure. Sadly, the 2014 will be very hard to find, as production is off by 40%. The Bartolo Mascarello winery releases their rare magnums bottlings one year later than the bottles. We have small numbers of the 2013 to offer as well as a few extra cases of bottles. This wine has greatly appreciated in price since release, but demand is insatiable for this small production iconic winery. Barolo ,200 c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Maria Teresa Mascarello's 2014 Barolo has put on a good bit of weight since I first tasted it, yet it remains nervous, tightly wound and compact - which is to say, very much in the style of the year. Time in the glass brings out a host of bright red cherry, pomegranate, mint, leather and orange peel nuances, but only with reluctance. The 2014 is a positively electric Barolo, but it likely won't be ready to charm anytime soon. Readers should plan on cellaring it for at least a handful of years. Sadly, production is down by 40%. 94+ Points, Antonio Galloni Barolo ,700 c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) 3,900 c/s In Bond (6 magnums per case) Maria Teresa's 2013 Barolo is a stunning, drop-dead gorgeous beauty. Vibrant, crystalline and exceptionally nuanced, the 2013 speaks to elegance above all else. There is an exotic quality to the aromatics that adds to the wine's total sense of seduction. As captivating as the 2013 is today, there is no shortage of underlying grip and structure. Dark cherry, plum, spice, menthol and licorice are some of the many notes that grace the palate. But the 2013 is a wine of completeness rather than elements. And the 2013 simply has it all. In 2013, Mascarello opted for short-ish fermentation with limited postfermentation maceration because the skins were a bit fragile. The result is a delicate wine that shows just how finessed young Barolo can be. 98+ Points, Antonio Galloni Dolcetto d Alba c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) 2016 Dolcetto d'alba is a very pretty, restrained wine, with good structure and tons of varietal character. Tightly wound and structure, the 2016 will benefit from a good 6-12 months in bottle. There is less radiance and opulence than in the 2015, but more than enough complexity to hold interest for at least a few years. Violet, plum and blackberry overtones, along with grippy tannins, give the wine its brooding, inward personality. 90 Points, Antonio Galloni

14 4: Brovia The Brovia wines have often been outstanding, but over the last two decades or so, quality and consistency have both surged, placing this small, family-run estate in the upper echelon of Barolo producers Antonio Galloni, Vinous Wines from Brovia are some of our favourites from Piemonte; and are still at accessible prices. However, a secondary market is developing for these wines and they are rising steeply. Get your allocation while you still can, as this will be like Rinaldi and Bartolo in a few short years. We warned you Brovia also produces a range of very well-made wines, all biodynamic, from different varieties like Barbera, Arneis, Dolcetto and Freisa. Don t overlook them. In 2014, Brovia took the unusual step of bottling one single Barolo. The 2014 is a blend of two parcels, but the Brovias prefer not to disclose which two in order to not penalize the image of the other two vineyards for the future. The 2015s and 2016s I tasted from cask point to very promising vintages in the pipeline. Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com Barolo Ūnĭo c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) 295 per c/s In Bond (3 magnums per case) Just bottled, Brovia's 2014 Barolo is superb. Ample and broad on the palate, it is endowed with serious muscle and pure power. Lavender, mint, pine, plum, sage and a host of mineral and savory notes wrap around a core of plush dark blue/purplish fruit. The 2014 is a superb wine that may very well turn out to be even better than this note suggests. 92+ Points, Antonio Galloni Here's an interesting expression from Alex Sanchez and Elena and Cristina Brovia in Castiglione Falletto. The 2014 Barolo Unìo opens to a dark color tonality and an immediately velvety texture. The bouquet is brimming with dark fruit aromas spanning from Morello cherry to bitter currant. Spice, tar, cola and balsam herb fill in the background evenly and with harmony. This is a well-balanced wine from the 2014 vintage that shows impressive integrity across all the senses. Some 24,000 bottles were produced. 93+ Points, Monica Larner, RobertParker.com No single crus produced in this year, instead the best lots of each were selected during a blind tasting, regardless of how tiny the volume of the final blend would turn out. Castiglione Falletto. Tasted blind. Lustrous mid ruby with orange tinges. Fresh cherry fruit on the palate that is almost a little racy. Transparent with fine, tannic power on the finish. Long and fragrant and super-elegant. (WS) 17.5 Points, JancisRobinson.com

15 Barolo Riserva 150 Anniversario Rocche-Villero per magnum In Bond (1 magnum per case) The 2005 Barolo Riserva 150 Anniversario Rocche-Villero, bottled only in magnum to celebrate the estate's 150th anniversary, has blossomed into a gorgeous wine. Ample, generous and inviting, the 2005 brings together the aromatics and sensuality of Rocche with the darker fruit and structural weight of Villero, a compelling combination, to say the least. The creamy, beautifully layered finish only adds to the wine's considerable appeal. Readers who own the 2005 are in for a real treat. 95 Points, Antonio Galloni Barbera d'alba Ciabot del Fi c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) The 2016 Barbera d'alba Ciabot del Fi, Brovia's top Barbera, is rich and voluptuous in the glass. A resonant Barbera, the Ciabot del Fi is built on volume and texture. Sweet floral and spice notes wrap around the pliant finish. Barbera d'alba Sori del Drago c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) The 2016 Barbera d'alba Sorì del Drago is a terrific wine with a bright and fruity personality that nicely reflects the best characteristics of this vintage. The wine opens to dark fruit layering, with black fruit tones that segue to succulent plum, spice and sweet tobacco. The results are elegant and exuberant at the same time. Dolcetto d Alba Vignavillej c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) The 2016 Dolcetto d'alba Vignavillej is a full and generous red wine that bursts forward with dark, chewy and beautifully succulent fruit. You get dark cherry, plum and sweet blackberry in generous supply. Langhe Freisa La Villerina Secca c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) On the nose, Freisa recalls slightly sour-sweet fruit tones of strawberry and raspberry, and a pleasing nose of red and purple flowers. In fact, Freisa takes its name from the Latin word for strawberry, fresia. The finish has a tinge of bitterness, which makes a single sip of Freisa a bit of a carnival ride: a little sweet, a little sour, a little bitter Lovely! Roero Arneis Bianco c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Piemonte native Arneis faced near extinction in the 1970s, but it has made a welcome comeback, particularly in the hands of classic producers like Brovia. Aromas of green apples, pears, almonds, and white pepper lead on to a palate with refreshing acidity, some creaminess and weight, and a lingering spicy finish. Textbook Arneis!

16 5: G.B. Burlotto Fabio Alessandria's 2014s are terrific. Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com This is another historical winery which is making incredible wines that are very sought-after. And they are not easy to find we certainly cannot find enough of it. Founded in the early 19th century Giovanni Batista Burlotto almost single-handedly put Barolo on the international wine map. He entered his wines into competitions receiving many awards which was unheard of at the time earning him the distinguished title of Il Commendatore. The wines are some of the most spectacular in all of Piedmont. The jewel is Monvigliero, a legendary vineyard which produces wine of great individuality, full of charm and elegance and ageing potential. Now run by his great-great-grandson Fabio Allessandria his legacy lives on and their popularity is rising to reach the top levels. They don't reach the stratospheric quality of the 2013s, but that would have been too much to ask for. One of the things that stands out about the 2014s is that they are all dark, powerful and concentrated by the standards of both vintage and estate. I imagine these wines will need a bit of cellaring to come into their own. Yields are down 30% across the board. Partly, as a result of that, Alessandria opted not to bottle the Barolo Acclivi, and instead used that juice to boost the quality of the straight Barolo. Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com Barolo c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Burlotto's 2014 Barolo is delicate, gracious and very pretty. Floral and supremely inviting, it is a fabulous wine for the year, and the midweight, perfumed style of the vintage comes through loud and clear. In 2014, Burlotto did not make their Barolo Acclivi. Instead, all of the wine that would have gone into that blend went into this, the entry-level bottling, which is a testament to Fabio Alessandria's commitment to delivering not just quality but also value among his more affordable wines. 91 Points, Antonio Galloni Barolo Cannubi c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) While Monvigliero gets most of the attention at Burlotto, the Cannubi is often nearly as compelling, and in 2014, it is perhaps a touch more complete. Mesmerizingly vivid and beautiful, the 2014 is deep, powerful and beautifully layered on the palate, with fabulous balance and irresistible allure. In this tasting, I find the Cannubi fleshier and more generous than the Monvigliero. In the cool vintage, the exposure and soils of Cannubi were probably a bit more favorable than those of Monvigliero. Incidentally, a recent bottle of the 2013 more than lived up to the lofty praise I bestowed upon it a year ago. 95+ Points, Antonio Galloni

17 Barolo Monvigliero ,000 c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) The 2014 Barolo Monvigliero is quite refined and gracious, although it is also surprisingly dark, dense and concentrated by this wine's standards. A shy, reticent wine, the 2014 is going to need time in bottle to flesh out, especially in the midpalate. I have seen this with other vintages and expect that it will be the case here as well. The precision, clarity and silkiness that are so typical of Monvigliero start to emerge as the wine opens up in the glass. Readers should plan on being patient. If that is not possible, try to taste the 2014 as soon as possible, because these wines have a tendency, to shut down hard post-bottling. As always, Monvigliero is fermented with 100% whole clusters. 95 Points, Antonio Galloni Langhe Nebbiolo c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) The 2017 Langhe Nebbiolo is translucent and weightless in the glass, with striking aromatic and flavor purity. Readers who want to get a sense of the Burlotto style without splurging on one of the Barolos will find much to admire. Crushed flowers, sweet tobacco, herbs, anise and bright red stone fruit are some of the signatures. Silky tannins add to the wine's considerable appeal. Langhe Freisa c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Burlotto's 2017 Freisa is gorgeous. Dark and enveloping, the 2017 makes a strong first impression. The flavours are dark and boldly sketched, with veins of firm tannin that give the wine its sense of direction and overall shape. This is another stellar entry-level wine in the range. Pelaverga di Verduno c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Crushed flowers, mint, dried cherry and anise are some of the many notes that lift from the 2017 Pelaverga Verduno. An airy, weightless wine, the 2017 nevertheless possesses quite a bit of depth and staying power on the palate. Once again, proprietor Fabio Alessandria has done a tremendous job in preserving the fruit integrity of Pelaverga while avoiding excessive greenness in the wine.

18 6: Cappellano The 2013s are brilliant, understated Barolos built for cellaring. Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com We don t want to say much about these wines as demand is impossible to satisfy for this tiny winery. Wines are incredible...secondary market prices are soaring Since 2012, Cappellano has reduced the amount of time his wines spend in cask by a year in order to preserve greater freshness. Sadly, production remains tiny. Cappellano prefers that his wines not receive numerical ratings, hence their absence here. Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com Barolo Piè Rupestris c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) 390 per magnum In Bond (1 magnum per case) The 2013 Barolo Barolo Rupestris is insanely beautiful. Here the flavors are dark and intense. Black cherry, plum, lavender and menthol add to the wine's sense of gravitas. The 2013 is endowed with serious power and intensity, and yet it has an element of inner sweetness that adds sensuality. In many ways, it reminds me of the 1989, which remains a tremendous Barolo. Powerful, explosive and tannic, the 2013 has much to offer. Antonio Galloni Barolo Piè Franco ,000 c/s In Bond (3 bottles per case) 750 per magnum In Bond (1 magnum per case) In 2013, the Barolo Piè Franco is decidedly austere and tannic. Readers should be in no rush to open bottles, not that that should be a problem. Time in the glass brings out the alluring aromatics that are such a signature of the Piè Franco. Although closed down and not fully expressive, the 2013 is a Barolo of haunting beauty. Readers lucky enough to own it can look forward to several decades of exceptional drinking. Antonio Galloni

19 Barbera d Alba Gabutti c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) The Barbera d'alba by Cappellano is a traditional style red wine from the famous Gabutti vineyard and aged in big oak barrel for about 40 months. Intense scents of ripe red fruits and wild spices introduce to a full-bodied taste, dry and well-structured, characterized by a great personality. Barolo Chinato NV 30 In Bond (per bottle) Dr. Giuseppe Cappellano, a pharmacist by trade, developed this sublime mixture of vintage Barolo with herbs and spices steeped in alcohol back in the late 1800s literally as a digestive aid and stomach-settling concoction. The top-secret recipe has been passed down from father to son via handwritten letter over the generations. The results of this arcane process are nothing short of sublime - On the palate, the Chinato s marked sweetness is buffered by its sheer depth and complexity - after all, 50% of the stuff is traditionally vinified and aged single-vintage Barolo from a great vineyard in Serralunga d Alba. A heady melange of herbs and spices, coupled with the elixir s rich, chocolatey depths, pull both mouth and mind in infinite directions, but the whole experience is still balanced, composed, and just flat-out absurdly delicious!

20 7: Chiara Boschis These are three highly expressive, nuanced Barolos from Chiara Boschis. The Via Nuova is once again the star of the show. Blending fruit from various sites was quite possibly the best way to deal with the conditions of Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com Chiara Boschis makes some of the best Barolos and has a loyal following. Her recently created new Barolo blend, Via Nuova, seems to be performing strongly vintage after vintage, even better than the more famous single-vineyard Cannubi. If you have never tasted her wines, you are missing out. Barolo Via Nuova c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) 105 per magnum In Bond (1 magnum per case) The 2014 Barolo Via Nuova is a blend of six sites - Liste, Terlo, Ravera di Monforte, Mosconi, Gabutti and Baudana - all of which are bottled as vineyard designates by other growers. There is something about the art of the blend that can be convincing, especially in challenging vintages such as The Via Nuova is a veritable explosion of aromas, flavors and sensations. Super-ripe red cherry, plum, kirsch, cinnamon and lavender all rush from the glass. Sweet, perfumed and beautifully layered throughout, the 2014 Via Nuova is all finesse. 95 Points, Antonio Galloni Barolo Cannubi c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) 125 per magnum In Bond (1 magnum per case) The 2014 Barolo Cannubi from Chiara Boschis is soft, supple and surprisingly giving at this early stage. Exotic spice and citrus overtones add to wine's considerable allure. Succulent red cherry, cinnamon, orange peel and rose petal notes all lift from the glass in this gracious, sublime Barolo. This is one of the more accessible 2014s I tasted during my fall trip. Given its midweight structure, the 2014 Cannubi may turn out to have a relatively short life, but then again, Nebbiolo often surprises. Today, the wine is exceptionally beautiful. 93 Points, Antonio Galloni Barolo Mosconi c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) 110 per magnum In Bond (1 magnum per case) A wine of power and breadth, the 2014 Barolo Mosconi has all, of the textural depth that is typical of this Monforte site. Dark cherry, plum, smoke, licorice and incense are some of the many notes that fill out the wine's generous frame. It will be interesting to see if the 2014 comes together a bit more fully with time in bottle. Today, it is decidedly virile and a touch monolithic. 93 Points, Antonio Galloni

21 8: Giacomo Conterno Roberto Conterno's 2014 Barolos have been thrilling since I first started tasting them a few years ago. Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com There is very little wine to offer from G. Conterno this vintage as all the fruit from the Francia vineyard has been kept for the Monfortino 2014, which will be released in 3 years. This will be another 100-point wine which will, no-doubt break its own record as Italy s most expensive wine. In the meantime, there is some great Barbera 2016 which you should snap up Two thousand fourteen is the first vintage Conterno made with his new state-of-the-art destemmer. If there was a vintage that could have benefited from a little more selection in the cellar, 2014 was certainly it. As he has done a few times now, Conterno decided not to bottle his Barolo Cascina Francia and instead used all of the fruit for his flagship Monfortino. Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com Barolo Cerretta ,100 c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) 450 per magnum In Bond (1 magnum per case) An utterly haunting wine, the 2014 Barolo Cerretta is sweet, perfumed and light on its feet. The purity of the aromatics and flavors is striking, but it is the wine's overall sense of harmony and polish that is most remarkable. Rose petal, lavender, mint and bright fruit are finely sketched in this stunningly beautiful, vivid Barolo from Roberto Conterno Points, Antonio Galloni Barbera d Alba Vigna Francia c/s In Bond (12 bottles per case) 485 per c/s In Bond (6 magnums per case) One step up in intensity compared to the Barbera from the Cerretta vineyard, the 2016 Barbera d'alba Vigna Francia is darker, richer and more opulent. Barbera is planted in the upper and lower parts of the Francia vineyard. That combination of elevations from this well-exposed amphitheater of vines makes for a balanced expression that is capped by both acidity and deep fruity intensit. The mouthfeel shows volume and rich textural layering. 94+ Points, Monica Larner, RobertParker.com

22 Barbera d Alba Cerretta c/s In Bond (12 bottles per case) The first wine I tasted with Roberto Conterno was the 2016 Barbera d'alba Cerretta. Roberto says that the hot and dry years are best suited to this grape. Luckily, there have been a string of these, including 2015, 2016 (to a lesser extent) and This wine is vinified in oak (both the alcoholic and the malolactic fermentations take place in barrel). After that, the wine ages in botte for 20 months. This pretty Barbera d'alba will be bottled in June. There is a real sense of beauty here, thanks to ripe but also very precise aromas of blackberry and plum. Pretty mineral nuances and light notes of balsam herb and rosemary add elegant touches to the smoky finish. 94 Points, Monica Larner, RobertParker.com 9: Diego Morra The hottest young winemaker in Verduno, making great wines at low prices. Diego Morra is little by little taking back his vines and crafting delicious wines. He is one of the only producers of Pelaverga, just like their cousins the Alessandria s of Burlotto, an incredibly rare variety which makes peppered strawberry-tasting wines. This is a very refreshing wine which our clientele has discovered and is now demanding. We are offering here his Barolos from the great 2013 vintage, including from one of the best vineyards in Piemonte, the famed Monvigliero. We challenge you to find better value great Barolo. Barolo per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) A thoughtful union of grapes from the towns of La Morra (75%) and Verduno (25%) to best combine the sensorial characteristics of the "King of Langhe wines". Good structure with gently orange-red colours denoting a correct ageing in tonneaux after a long maceration and soft crushing. The right amount of time in the bottle guarantees the rest necessary to optimize the taste of the full warm tannins and alcohol - accompanied by lightly spiced flowery notes of rose. Morrawines.com

23 Barolo Monvigliero per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Historic Cru from Barolo, the grapes in this selection originate from the era of our Grandfather Geronimo through the best vintages of our winery. A decidedly small yield (circa 70 q/hectare) and a generous orientation make this wine unique in its category. On a sensorial trip, from the nose to the mouth by way of balanced and lightly shaded reds, to perfumes of rose, mature fruit, delicate spices, perhaps tobacco, it then opens itself in a warm hug full of proper tannins to complete the sensation that only a great wine can capture. Morrawines.com Verduno Pelaverga per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) The colour, which is not too intense, is typical of this variety and leaves room for brilliant, vibrant tones of red, signs of its forwardness and youth. The predominant characteristic of the varietal is the richness of the perfumes: a jubilee of spices that delicately alter leaving plenty of room for warm, intense, encompassing notes of pepper. Morrawines.com Dolcetto d Alba per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Maximum expression of the varietal characteristics, the intense ruby red colour predominates with violet reflections. The winey perfumes of exuberant freshness are accompanied by enjoyable notes of fruit like peach, blackberry as well as flowery perfumes of wild violets. Enjoyably captivating in the moth with the right balance between vintage readiness and soft tannins make this wine easy to appreciate even at a young age. Morrawines.com

24 Langhe Nebbiolo per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) The wine-making process, the malolactic fermentation and great part of the aging process (which finishes with a period in wood) takes place in stainless steel containers during a month period. maximum expression of the varietal's characteristics, the ruby red colour isn't too intense given the wine's notes of garnet. The winey perfumes and scents of mature red fruit and small berry jam are accompanied by marked flowery notes of rose. The delicate scents of toast and vanilla complete the bouquet. The ageing in wood allows for the right marriage between the richness of the tannins typical of Nebbiolo from the Langhe and the soft mouthfeel make this a balanced but long-lasting wine. Morrawines.com 10: Elio Grasso "Elio Grasso remains the most under-appreciated of Piemonte s top growers. Make no mistake these wines easily hold their own with the best from the region." Antonio Galloni, Vinous As has been the case for a number of years, Grasso's Barolos sit at a very high level within the hierarchy of Piedmont's top estates. The 2014 growing season was quite challenging. Gianluca Grasso told me he deleafed more than normal in order, to get the most Mother Nature wanted to offer in terms of ripeness. Hail, disease and sorting resulted in a loss of 30-40% of the crop. In the end, Grasso decided to bottle a single Barolo. Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com Barolo c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) 85 per magnum In Bond (1 magnum per case) In 2014, Gianluca Grasso opted to bottle one Barolo that is a blend of juice from Gavarini and Chiniera. Grasso's 2014 Barolo is a beautiful wine that captures the personality of the vintage. Lithe, perfumed and aromatic, the 2014 exudes class from start to finish. The flavors are wonderfully bright and vibrant, with plenty of red fruit and expressive floral and overtones. The 2014 is a pretty, feminine wine that may very well surprise down the road. The Gavarini fruit saw 25 days on the skins, while fermentation and maceration for the Ginestra lots was days, all with submerged cap. When bottling time came, Grasso preferred the blended Barolo to what would have been vineyard designate Gavarini and Ginestra Barolos. The juice from Rüncot went into the the Langhe Nebbiolo, which is the custom when the flagship Riserva is not bottled. 92 Points, Antonio Galloni

25 11: Giuseppe Mascarello These grapes in this vineyard were always the best so in 1970 I decided for the first time to vinify them apart What is perhaps most special about this family, is that in five decades very little has changed. Mauro, joined now by Elena and Giuseppe, set out to produce traditional, long-lived Barolos - an ambition realised with absolutely no concessions. His honest, wonderful wines are a product first and foremost of exceptional terroir, shaped only by the soft, gentle extractions and extended barrel ageing that takes place in the cellar. Barolo lovers will attest that with age Mauro s wines are nothing short of spectacular. Barolo Villero per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Villero, as ever, is perfumed and pale with ravishing fresh raspberry and rose petal aromas, rendering it a more slender, seductive Barolo. Barolo Santo Stefano di Perno per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Perno Santo Stefano meanwhile is a model of cool salinity, blueberry, blackberry and forest fruit, with a lilt of mint and violet - firmer in style but not heavy. Barolo Monprivato per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) This is Monprivato at its best with its unmistakeably ethereal, lifting nose scents of alpine strawberry and rose. This 2014 has got everything Monprivato lovers could possibly want. Intense small red berry, Gariguette strawberry, rose petal and rock salt flow briskly but seamlessly across the palate. Wonderfully crisp and taut without losing any of its charm. Stunning. A Castiglione Falleto vineyard that is one of the finest, most hallowed plots in the whole of Barolo. A steep south west facing vineyard with a very white limestone based soil that gives profound, mineral wines. Aged for 36 months in large oak vats. Langhe Freisa Toetto per c/s In Bond (12 bottles per case) I can't get enough Freisa, so I'm always happy to visit those producers who still make wine from this often forgotten grape. The Mascarello family's 2016 Langhe Freisa Toetto is made from just half a hectare of vines in Castiglione Falletto. Part of this site has now been replanted to Nebbiolo, and that means that only 3,000 to 4,000 bottles of Friesa are produced each year. Great care is taken in winemaking. Delicate pump-overs are done instead of punch-downs. The results are fresh, vibrant and teaming with wild berry flavors. The finish adds spicy sensations and fresh acidity that keeps the persistence long. What the wine lacks in complexity, it offers in terms of ease in drinking. 90+ Points, Monica Larner, RobertParker.com

26 12: Nervi - Conterno My goal is to elevate Gattinara to a whole new level. I feel like I didn t just open a new door, Roberto said with glee. I kicked it open. Roberto Conterno The maker of Italy's most collected wine, Monfortino, acquired Gattinara's Nervi in late April The news hit Piedmont with intensity as the Nebbiolo grape had suddenly been given more latitude. The Gattinara appellation is home to volcanic soils and is a world apart from the mostly calcareous marl found in Barolo. Gattinara is another small appellation in Alto Piemonte which has traditionally made Nebbiolo based wines. The notoriety of Conterno will surely push this historic region back into the limelight. Roberto s aim, along with his sons, is to apply the same fastidious attention to detail and quality to the wines of Nervi as he does to those of the Giacomo Conterno estate. The wines are already traditional, pure and age-worthy and they are surely only going to get better from here! Gattinara per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Nervi's 2015 Gattinara shows the most evident volcanic characteristics in my opinion. One of the things I like most about the vintage is that it shows off those subtle soil and territory nuances with greater focus and identity. The cooler summer season made for fine and delicate aromas overall, resulting in transparent and precise wines. You taste the dark and savory imprinting of these volcanic soils with crushed mineral, ash and wild berry fruit. The wine reveals depth and purity. Gattinara Vigna Valferana per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) 150 per magnum In Bond (1 magnum per case) Of the two vineyard sites vinified separately Nervi-Conterno, the 2014 Gattinara Vigna Valferana is perhaps crisper and sharper. The vines are planted some 350 meters above sea level, and although this is not particularly high, they enjoy open, west-facing exposures. The volcanic soils are cooler as a result, and the wine offers beautifully pronounced aromas of forest berry, underbrush, bramble and wild rose. You also get a clear mineral pause with brimstone and crushed granite that lasts for a few brief moments. The tannins are soft and silky. Of the two single-vineyard wines, Vigna Valferana is the more immediate and accessible.

27 Gattinara Vigna Molsino per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) 150 per magnum In Bond (1 magnum per case) 300 per double magnum In Bond (1 double magnum per case) 1,325 cases produced, only made in the best vintages. The Molsino vineyard was planted in 1992 and enjoys a protected position at the heart of a little amphitheatre of hills. It is planted at about 400 meters above sea level, but the daytime heat and sunshine settles softly into this unique vineyard basin. The 2014 Gattinara Vigna Molsino shows power, firmness and finesse. These traits suggest that it needs a little more bottle age to further its evolution. The bouquet shows tight aromas of cassis, spice and campfire ash. Although Roberto Conterno promises that he will not change the Nervi house style, it will be fascinating to taste this wine in a few years, when it is under the full tutelage of the maker of Monfortino. One thing must be said for both Monfortino and Molsino these wines benefit from first rate quality of fruit.

28 13: Poderi Oddero When it comes to Nebbiolo, Oddero has been an ardent traditionalist, insisting on longer macerations to extract as much character as possible from the grape, and then élevage in large casks with minimal oak influence. Kevin Day/Opening a Bottle "Poderi e Cantine Oddero" (Oddero Estate and Winery) is a historic name among Barolo producers. Run for generations by men, it is now in the hands of Mariacristina and Mariavittoria, the daughters of Giacomo Oddero, Barolo patriarch and a man whose fame reaches beyond the Langhe. Oddero makes a very good standard Barolo wine, but also has vines in some of the best and sunniest sites (known as sôri) on the hills in the Barolo and Barbaresco zones. There they make wines of value and finesse, perfect expressions of the Piemontese terroir. They include Vigna Rionda in Serralunga d'alba, Mondoca di Bussia Soprana in Monforte d'alba, Brunate in La Morra, and Villero and Rocche di Castiglione in Castiglione Falletto. Don t miss! Barolo per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Aromas of strawberries and cherries with some rose petals and stem. Medium body, fine tannins and a fresh, clean finish. Drink now. 90 Points, James Suckling Barolo Rocche di Castiglione per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) This shows some lovely intensity on the nose with dried plums, glazed cherries, creme de cassis and a touch of herbal liqueur. Shows a sturdy tannin backbone with great tension and balance of fruit and acidity. Drink in Points, James Suckling Barolo Brunate per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Lots of herbs to this Barolo, as well elderflower, dried lavender and spices. The acidity is pretty edgy on the palate, but the fruit is all there. The tannins are firm yet ripe enough to make this juicy on the finish. Drink in Points, James Suckling

29 Barolo Bussia Vigna Mondoca Riserva c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) 175 per magnum In Bond (1 magnum per case) The purity of fruit here is stunning. A cascade of all kinds of fruit tea precedes a fanfare of blueberry peel, bright lemons, heather, freshly pressed lavender, orange rind and grapefruit skin. Full body, bright acidity and layered fruit that s taken on a long, seemingly endless ride on the finish. So refined and delicate yet powerful and forthcoming. Delicious now, but better in 2022 and a long time after that. 97 Points, James Suckling Barolo Vigna Rionda Riserva c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) 290 per magnum In Bond (1 magnum per case) So much truffle and chanterelle character to this late-release Barolo in addition to tobacco, cedar, figs, dried rose petals and Chinese spices. Full-bodied with delicious chewiness to the tannins, mouth-watering acidity and a long, very spicy finish. Drink in Points, James Suckling

30 14: Paitin A traditional winery since the first Barbaresco wine was bottled in 1893, but now fully biodynamic and making exciting wines. I remember visiting Paitin in the middle of the summer in At the time, brothers Giovanni and Silvano Pasquero were worried 2014 could turn out to be another Luckily, that did not turn out to be the case, as the weather stabilized towards the end of summer and into fall, with an end of season characterized by the wide diurnal shifts that are so favorable for Nebbiolo. Poor weather and small berries are two of the reasons yields are down considerably in 2014, but the wines have turned out well. Currently, the estate intends to bottle its entire range of Barbarescos, including the flagship Vecchie Vigne. Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com Barbaresco Serra Boella per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Mahogany, sandalwood, wet earth, dried hibiscus, fruit tea and cedar. Medium body, tight tannins and a fine finish. Drink in Points, James Suckling Barbaresco Sori Paitin per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) The 2014 Barbaresco Sorì Paitin is another delicious, expressive Barbaresco. Sweet red cherry, plum, spice, rose petal and blood orange are infused in this striking, deep Barbaresco. Like many wines of the vintage, the Sorì Paitin has fully ripe tannins that give the wine much of its surprisingly early appeal. Pasquero told me he planned to bottle the 2014 either just before or just after the 2016 harvest Points, Antonio Galloni Barbaresco Sori Paitin Vecchie Vigne per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) The 2011 Barbaresco Sorì Paitin Vigne Vecchie is just as stunning as it has always been. A wine of extraordinary purity, the 2011 is laced with rose petals, spices, mint, sweet red berries. The balance of fruit, acidity and tannin is simply magnificent. At the same time, the power and breadth of Serraboella comes through in spades. 95+ Points, Antonio Galloni Nebbiolo d Alba, Ca Veja per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Grown on the southern hill of Alba. Wild strawberry, mint and rose petal give this wine its distinctive high-toned aromatics. Succulent, silky tannins give up-front appeal. Delicious! Barbara d Alba, Campolive per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) From the steepest, sandier and warmer part of Serraboella. In this area the Barbera has a unique expression for roundness, deepness and aging ability. Lavender, mint, plum, violet and dark spice add considerable nuance throughout.

31 15: Palladino Palladino makes classic Barolo from a few crus in Serralunga, but in such small quantities that you don t find it widely offered. However it is widely appreciated! Azienda Vinicola Palladino sits nestled in the town of Serralunga d Alba, in the heart of Barolo. The Palladino winery sits in the centre of the village, with a castle perched high above that dates back to the 14th century. Palladino is one of the oldest wineries in Serralunga d Alba, dating back to The winery was purchased by the Palladino cousins, Maurilio (winemaker) and Mauro in Since then they have completely restored and remodelled the winery and added the most advanced cellar equipment while maintaining their classic approach to winemaking. Barolo Serralunga d Alba per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Just 1,548 cases produced in 2014 Glazed cherries, dried plums and cedar. Medium body, fine tannins and an easy finish. Drink now. 89 Points, James Suckling Barolo Parafada per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Just 334 cases produced in 2014 Dried strawberries, glazed red cherries and red plum essence with some baking spices. Medium to full body, ripe tannins and a juicy finish. Drink in Points, James Suckling Serralunga d Alba. Tasted blind. Deep ruby with bright orange tinges. Deep, brooding, focused nose of sweet cherry fruit. Aromatic, supple cherry palate with bags of grainy tannins. Has plenty of everything and is ready now. (WS) 17 Points, Jancis Robinson.com Barolo Ornato c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Just 234 cases produced in 2014 Quite a forward style for the vintage with notes of brambleberries, hazelnuts, mahogany, tobacco, cigar box and loads of rose stems. The palate is held together by chewy tannins, while the acidity provides a refreshing reprieve. Not the most approachable Barolo right now, but it should show very nicely if you give this until Points, James Suckling

32 Barolo San Bernado Riserva per c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Just 417 cases produced in 2012 (6 bts per case) Plummy notes play amid orange rind, candied lemon peel, raspberry cheesecake and undertones of baking spices, as well as sandalwood and tobacco. Full body, silky yet firm tannins and a long, very spicy finish. Such focus and style. 92 Points, James Suckling Platinum Medal Decanter World Wine Awards Points, Decanter

33 16: Giuseppe Rinaldi RIP, Citrico, and thank you for the memories. Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com Giuseppe Rinaldi sadly passed away this year, after dedicating his whole life to making incredible wines in Barolo. His daughters Marta and Carlotta have been in charge for the last few vintages and we adore the precision of their wines. Unfortunately so does the rest of the world so these wines have a huge following. Buy as many as you can as market prices are still rising. We have been saying this for a few years and we don t see it ending just yet. We also think the 2014s are better than what Galloni writes below. Barolo Brunate per bottle In Bond 2,750 c/s In Bond (12 bottles per case) 600 per magnum In Bond (1 magnum per case) A Barolo of midweight structure and persistence, the 2014 Brunate comes across as a wine that will drink well with minimal cellaring. The 2014 offers fine balance in a decidedly gracious, understated style. Naturally, the dimension and breadth of the very best years aren't quite there. 92 Points, Antonio Galloni Barolo Tre Tine per bottle In Bond 2,750 c/s In Bond (12 bottles per case) 600 per magnum In Bond (1 magnum per case) The 2014 Barolo Tre Tine is nervous and tightly wound, with good precision and a bit more austerity than is the norm. Readers will have to be patient with the 2014, although I suspect the wine will always be a bit aggressive because of the effects of hail. There is good delineation to the bright red stone fruit, tobacco and floral notes. It will be interesting to see how the 2014 develops in coming years. 93 Points, Antonio Galloni Dolcetto d Alba c/s In Bond (12 bottles per case) Rinaldi's 2015 Dolcetto d'alba is an absolute joy. Ripe, flashy and exuberant, the 2015 offers up layers of racy blue and black fruit to contrast a quintessentially old-school style. This is the essence of traditionally made Dolcetto.

34 17: Luciano Sandrone This is a stellar set of wines from the Sandrone family. Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com Sandrone continues to make exceptional wines year after year. This includes his sought-after Barolos but also the wines from other varietals which we are happy to recommend. As I wrote last year, something quite interesting has happened at Sandrone over the last two years. Sandrone built their reputation with the Barolo Cannubi Boschis. In recent years, the Sandrones have upped their game meaningfully with new sites that add complexity and pedigree to the Barolo Le Vigne and also introduced a new Barolo, the Vite Talin (released next year), both of which are so impressive that they now overshadow the Cannubi Boschis. All of that makes the Sandrones decision to rebrand their flagship wine Aleste all the more puzzling. But, as the saying goes, it is what it is. Luciano Sandrone's first vintage under his own label was I can't think of too many producers in Piedmont (or anywhere, for that matter) that have been as consistently brilliant over that arc of time. Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com Barolo Aleste c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) 160 per magnum In Bond (1 magnum per case) The 2014 Barolo Aleste is a wine of exquisite finesse and grace. Soft, understated and classy, it is a terrific example of the vintage at its best. Bright red cherry and red plum fruit give the wine its vibrant feel. In 2014, the Aleste is decidedly medium-bodied and restrained, especially compared to recent past vintages. Readers should keep in mind that Aleste is the new name for the Cannubi Boschis Barolo. 93 Points, Antonio Galloni Barolo Le Vigne c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) 150 per magnum In Bond (1 magnum per case) The 2014 Barolo Le Vigne once again shows the wisdom of blending fruit from different sites. If there is a vintage where blending has the potential to be the difference-maker, 2014 is it. So it is hardly surprising to find the 2014 Le Vigne in such great shape. The red cherry jam, mint, cedar and floral notes are all finely sketched. Medium in body and classy, the 2014 is beautifully textured and inviting from start to finish. All the elements are simply in the right place. Vineyard sources are Merli, Vignane, Villero and Baudana. 96 Points, Antonio Galloni

35 Nebbiolo d Alba Valmaggiore c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) About ten producers make wine in the Valmaggiore cru in Roero, and these wines get better each year I return to taste them. The 2016 Nebbiolo d'alba Valmaggiore is particularly beautiful, thanks to ideal growing conditions during that year. The Sandrone family counts 3.5 hectares in this location. As an alternative to Barolo, this wine presents a soft and graceful side of Nebbiolo with delicate fruit nuances and distinct mineral etchings. Indeed, the wine is almost salty in taste. The sandy soils of Valmaggiore contribute to shaping the wine's lively ruby appearance and those tangy wild berry aromas. This wine is only aged in neutral oak. 94 Points, Monica Larner, RobertParker.com Barbera d Alba c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Although 2016 was a classic year for Nebbiolo, Luciano Sandrone tells me it was an awkward year for Barbera. That sudden heat you might expect during summer never materialized, and the seasons remained cool and fresh over the entire course of the growing cycle. The 2016 Barbera d'alba is a slightly more subdued and undertone wine as a result. It shows less fruity exuberance compared to warm years, such as the delicious Dark fruit is enhanced here by crushed mineral and campfire ash. There is a pleasantly sweet note on the close that covers the grape's spicy acidity. 89 Points, Monica Larner, RobertParker.com Dolcetto d Alba c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) The 2017 Dolcetto d'alba is even more Dolcetto-like in this hot vintage. This Piedmont variety loves a hot, dry summer, and that's exactly what it got during this scorching growing season. The bouquet bursts open to raw plum and succulent flavors that include dried blackberry and candied cherry. This wine is particularly opulent, rich and exuberant. It's almost too much of a good thing, in a positive way. Luciano Sandrone tells me this was the first vintage in his long winemaking career in which he harvested his Dolcetto before the end of August. 91+ Points, Monica Larner, RobertParker.com

36 18: G.D Vajra "By now I have run out of superlatives for Vajra. Suffice it to say these are some of the finest, artisan wines being made in Piedmont today. My only regret is not having bought these wines more heavily in the past." Antonio Galloni, Vinous We recommend these wines from Vajra vintage after vintage and Galloni seems to agree. This year we ve got a little bit of the Baudana from the small Luigi Baudana estate they bought a few years ago. Tiny amounts made so jump on it quickly! Barolo Bricco delle Viole c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) 115 per magnum In Bond (1 magnum per case) The 2014 Barolo Bricco delle Viole is positively stunning. There are many things about this wine that are super-impressive, but what stands out most is how soft and silky the tannins are. Because of that, the 2014 is much more approachable than it usually is, and yet also conveys the feeling of translucence that is such a signature of this site and wine. I am not sure I have ever tasted a young Bricco delle Viole with this much purity of fruit. The 2014 is total class. Don't miss it. 96 Points, Antonio Galloni Barolo Ravera c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) A stark contrast to the Bricco delle Viole, Vajra's 2014 Barolo Ravera is a tannic, powerful wine. There is quite a bit of power and depth, but the tannins are also rustic and a touch rough around the edges. The 2014 is going to need time to settle down. It will be interesting to see if bottle age adds polish, but today, the Ravera is a brute. 93 Points, Antonio Galloni

37 Barolo Baudana, Luigi Baudana c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Luigi Baudana in Serralunga d'alba is a separate winery under the management of G D Vajra (located in the upper hills of the Barolo township). I suppose you could call it a partial acquisition because the previous owners retired from winemaking but continue to live adjacent to the vineyards. G D Vajra is committed to safeguarding the Luigi Baudana house style and winemaking tradition, Giuseppe Vajra explains. Approximately 200 to 300 cases are made of each wine. A darker side of Nebbiolo emerges from the 2014 Barolo Baudana. Powerful but also supple, the 2014 is a wine of pure, arresting beauty. Sweet red cherry, kirsch and floral notes meld together in a striking, textured Barolo that is a joy to taste, even at this early stage. 95 Points, Antonio Galloni Langhe Nebbiolo c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Here is another terrific interpretation of Nebbiolo from a vintage that promises fantastic results with this finicky grape. The 2016 Langhe Nebbiolo offers bright floral and fruity intensity with dried violets, cassis, blueberry and forest floor. The effect is fine and elegant, and the wine finishes with smooth silkiness. The fruit is pressed cold at harvest in order to maintain that distinctive crispness and freshness. 92 Points, Monica Larner, RobertParker.com

38 19: Vietti This is an absolutely phenomenal set of wines from Vietti. Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com Vietti keeps making great Barolos, check out the tasting notes below as they say it all. These always sell out so be quick! For information, we favour buyers who take each of the four 2014 crus. The 2014s are every bit as magnificent as they have always been from barrel. The dual flagships Rocche di Castiglione and Ravera are superb, while the entry-level Barolo Castiglione does a great job of conveying the personality of the year. Sadly, Brunate sustained 60% hail damage. As a result, Luca Currado opted not to bottle his Barolo Brunate. Yields are down about 25% across the board, so readers will want to snap up these Barolos before they disappear. Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com Barolo Castiglione c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) The 2014 Barolo Castiglione is superb. Nuanced, layered and sculpted in the glass, the Castiglione is a wine of real precision and class. In 2014, the Castiglione is medium in body and gracious, with perhaps a bit less stuffing than in some previous editions, but tons of persistence. Hints of lavender, rose petal and red berry fruit lead into the crystalline, translucent finish. Time in the glass brings out this gorgeous Barolo's more refined side. Once again, the Castiglione is a real overachiever. The Castiglione is built on a core of Ravera, with a complement of fruit from other sites that are often vineyard-designated by other producers. 93 Points, Antonio Galloni Barolo Lazzarito c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) 275 per magnum In Bond (1 magnum per case) In many ways, the gorgeous 2014 Barolo Lazzarito is the most surprising wine in the range. Once a stylistic outlier with a considerable French oak influence, today it is much closer to the other Barolos in terms of feel. Deep, dark and intense, with all of the energy of the year very much on display, the Lazzarito is super-expressive and shows a more red-toned profile than is the norm. Kirsch, mint, rose petal and chalk all develop in the glass, while beams of tannin and salinity give the wine shape and persistence. The weight and depth of Serralunga come through on the midpalate and into the finish. Even so, this is in a decidedly laid-back style for Serralunga. In 2014, I especially like the wine's aromatic presence. 96 Points, Antonio Galloni Barolo Ravera c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) 275 per magnum In Bond (1 magnum per case) Another highlight in this range, the 2014 Barolo Ravera opens with the most exquisite, captivating aromatics imaginable. It will be interesting to see if it develops a bit more midpalate depth and pliancy. Today, the 2014 is a bit austere, even within the context of the year and this site, where the wines are a bit on the nervous side to start. I have seen Vietti Raveras blossom into spectacular wines and imagine that will be the case here as well. Readers should not plan on opening a bottle anytime soon. 97 Points, Antonio Galloni

39 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) 275 per magnum In Bond (1 magnum per case) Vietti's 2014 Barolo Rocche di Castiglione is shaping up to be a modern-day classic. Piercing, intense and austere in the best sense of the word, the Rocche is a wine of laser-like focus that will leave Barolo lovers weak in the knees. Candied cherry, pomegranate, kirsch, rose petal and violet overtones give the 2014 its inner sweetness and captivating perfume. In a word: stunning. Don't miss it. 98 Points, Antonio Galloni Last but not least the latest Riserva release, the 2010 Barolo Riserva Villero, and the perfect 100 Point 2009 vintage! Barolo Riserva Villero c/s In Bond (3 bottles per case) Virile and imposing in the glass, the 2010 Barolo Riserva Villero packs a serious punch. Swaths of tannin wrap around a huge core of fruit in a dark, virile Barolo that shows the more brooding side of the vintage. Sage, tobacco, menthol, violet and smoke add nuance throughout. Readers will have to be patient, as the tannins are likely to remain formidable for many years to come. 96 Points, Antonio Galloni Luca Currado is on a roll. This is the third vintage (in as many years) that blows me off my feet. The 2010 Barolo Riserva Villero is a spectacular achievement and a wine that we all aspire to have in our cellars. There is a level of truism here an authentic portrait of the Nebbiolo grape that is outstanding. The fruit from Villero saw 45 days of skin maceration and few rackings. The wines of Vietti are always made in reduction to guarantee their long aging future. The bouquet offers many fleeting aromas that add to its enormous complexity. You get wild berry, licorice, anise seed and a touch of iron rust. On average, this very special wine is only released every four years. 99 Points, Monica Larner, RobertParker.com Barolo Riserva Villero c/s In Bond (3 bottles per case) In a word, the 2009 Barolo Riserva Villero is magic. I'm not sure I understand how Luca Currado does it. With his wizard's wand, he achieves a level of purity and intensity that I have rarely ever seen in Barolo or any other Italian appellation for that matter. The wine is centered and balanced at its core, but its aromas and flavors are absolutely explosive at the same time. The bouquet delivers dark fruit, tobacco, white truffle, balsam herb and grilled rosemary. The tannins are structured with a vein of supple sweetness. This wine undergoes malolactic fermentation in large barrel and is left to develop on the fine lees without racking. It is largely made in reduction to establish that crunchy and firm quality you feel in the mouth. This special Riserva was not made in However, it was produced in 2007, 2006, 2004, 2001, 1997, 1996, 1990, 1989 and Luca is planning to make it in 2013, and that's great news for all. 100 Points, Monica Larner, RobertParker.com

40 20: Roberto Voerzio The cool vintage and Voerzio's own move toward a more restrained style have resulted in a set of Barolos that speak more to nuance than the sheer textural lushness readers have come to expect. Antonio Galloni, Vinous.com This more restained style is something we applaud and why we have now decided to list wines from this winery. Roberto Voerzio is undeniably one of the finest stars of Piedmont and a Barolo producer with a world-wide following. The wines are an exquisite mix of intensity and lightness, measured concentration and bright juicy, moreish flavours. Roberto Voerzio says his 2014 Barolo wines will be extraordinary, but, will require patience! The yields are around 50% of an average vintage, due to the cool, wet spring (flowering) and then a hailstorm in June. Roberto Voerzio's 2014 Barolos are gorgeous. The cool vintage and Voerzio's own move toward a more restrained style have resulted in a set of Barolos that speak more to nuance than the sheer textural lushness readers have come to expect. But Barolo doesn't need power or huge fruit to develop well in bottle, as Voerzio proved many years ago with his 1991 s and 1992 s. Antonio Galloni Barolo Cerequio c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Voerzio's exquisitely beautiful 2014 Barolo Cerequio is understated, classy and gracious, and a terrific expression of Cerequio, whose principal signatures of bright red cherry, kirsch, mint and floral notes emerge over time. The 2014 is not an obvious wine, but rather a midweight Barolo built on nuance and finesse. Hints of orange peel, cinnamon and pomegranate are laced into the super-expressive finish. 94 Points, Antonio Galloni Barolo La Serra c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) The 2014 La Serra is another knockout wine from Roberto Voerzio. La Serra is a site that tends to produce nervous, slightly angular wines. In 2014, though, Voerzio manages to temper some of that tannic edge. Dark cherry and plum fruit are nicely rendered in this surprisingly silky, unctuous Barolo. Blood orange, spice, menthol and licorice grow in the glass as the wine's upper register begins to emerge over time. This is a remarkably harmonious young Barolo. 95 Points, Antonio Galloni Barolo Rocche dell'annunziata c/s In Bond (6 bottles per case) Only 1,600 bottles were produced in The Barolo Rocche dell'annunziata is the most forward and supple of Roberto Voerzio's 2014 Barolos. Medium in body and open-knit, the 2014 comes across as a wine that is best suited to near- and medium-term drinking. The silky, pliant feel is classic Rocche. 93 Points, Antonio Galloni