Hitting the big time
Sometimes things just go your way. You put in the hard work behind the scenes for years and when your big chance comes you are ready. Simone and sister Martina joined the family business in 2013 and since then have been making their mark on the estate. First they converted to organic viticulture. Then they brought in new vertical wooden 'tini' for fermentation. Smart new labels and traditional Albeisa bottles appeared. Every part of the business was being looked at and improved.
So they were perfectly placed to take advantage of a vintage Simone calls 'close to perfection'. 'In 2016 we could not ask for more: a long vegetative cycle with perfect vintage weather conditions, healthy fruits and very promising wines. Close to harvest, the temperatures went below zero at night, and these are ideal conditions for Nebbiolo. It was close to perfection. 2016 Barolo combine the finesse and persistency of a classic vintage, with volume and aromatic complexity.'
Another tweak this year is to the blend of the Barolo Camilla. This used to be a blend purely from their small home village of Grinzane Cavour. But this year it also contains 15% each from their cru vineyards Bricco Ambrogio and Badarina, giving a greater depth and finesse. This is fantastic value. The crus themselves performed equally well. In their Bricco Ambrogio - the village of Roddi's best vineyard - they have produced what Monica Larner calls 'one of the finest interpretations of the site' and a riper, darker toned wine with hints of mint and licorice. Finally, Badarina is the jewel in their crown; a classic expression of Serralunga. Fine, perfumed and intense with rose and rosemary scents, but I wouldn't expect it to be at its peak for a while yet. /EE
Offered subject to confirmation; for shipment Winter 2020
