For this Barolo, this Verduno-based family producer has used grapes from its own fields in the immediate vicinity of the small patch, in the northernmost part of the appellation, where the wines are elegant and immensely fragrant without lacking intensity.
The 2018 vintage was not the easiest in history, but this wine exhibits a good combination of complexity and drinking pleasure. Due to a shorter maceration than the single field wines, there is less structure in this model. Nevertheless, there is excellent retirement potential – 10-15 years seems entirely realistic.
Barolo is essentially about the symbiosis that occurs between the Nebbiolo grape and the complex aging aromas that it acquires with time in barrel and bottle. Winemaker Vittore Alessandria masters this balance.
After the harvest, a total of approx. two weeks, after which the wine is aged for three years in 2-4,000 liter casks of Slavonian and French oak.
The scent offers a robust but ethereal, complex drinking experience with dried cherries, dried roses, pipe tobacco, a slight balsamic touch and just the right amount of free acid that tantalizes the senses and gives the whole complex. Firm but mature tannins are detected in the aftertaste, which do not seem astringent. This is buoyant but intense Barolo in distinctly confident style with a persistent aftertaste that far more than matches the price.
Try Fratelli Alessandria Barolo del Comune di Verduno for mushroom risotto, osso buco, roasted or braised veal, beef or wild game. Hard aged cheeses such as pecorino or parmesan are also self-described Barolo accompaniments.
Enjoyed in spacious burgundy glasses at a serving temperature of 17-19°.
94+ Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
96 points Wine Enthusiast Magazine
“Rose, woodland berry, pine forest and culinary spice are just some of the aromas you’ll find on this fragrant, fantastic red. Smooth, full-bodied and polished, the savory palate delivers ripe red cherry, crushed raspberry, star anise and white pepper alongside velvety tannins. Fresh acidity keeps bright.”
Kerin O’Keefe, September 2022
