Barolo Bussia “Vigna Colonnello” DOCG 2021

Aldo Conterno | Piedmont
Poderi Aldo Conterno | Loc. Bussia, 48 | IT 12065 Monforte d'Alba

05412521 · 0,75 l · 238,67 €/l · Price (DE) incl. VAT, excl. Shipping< 24 units available
Limitation of 3 articles per customer

Colonnello. The name recalls a French colonel from Napoleon's time who settled up here, directly above the large Bussia amphitheatre. Only three producers own plots in this single vineyard: Aldo Conterno, Prunotto and Bussia Soprana. One hectare of exclusive terrain, where 35 to 45-year-old vines at an altitude of up to 400 metres face west and south-west. The microclimate is cooler than down in the Bussia. And the soil? Predominantly sand, magnesium, clay – similar to La Morra. The result: wines with a brisker, more floral, more playful character than the powerful Bussia from lower vineyards. Fermentation in steel tanks with wild yeasts, then 30 months in 25-hectolitre Slavonian oak barrels, followed by almost a year in steel for natural clarification. Unfiltered bottling – the Conterno method for generations.

Medium brilliant ruby red colour. The nose is of compressed intensity, like a feather about to be released: velvety blackberry, black cherry, dried herbs, dark flowers, tar, smoky minerality, iron, yellow petals. On the palate, a potpourri of countless, finely structured, grippy tannins, which come along in a mercilessly juicy wave of velvety red cherry fruit. More present, more clearly defined than in Barolo Bussia, but never aggressive. An elegant gentleman with his head held high, built for the next three decades. SUPERIORE.DE

"Powerful, bright ruby colour. Opens with balsamic notes, cardamom and liquorice, also fresh leather, then raspberry and plum. The palate is characterised by well-defined fruit, dark raspberry, continues with fine, dense tannins and a long, salty finish." Falstaff

"The 2021 Barolo Colonnello is a very beautiful, sensual wine. Floral overtones meld into a core of red-tinged fruit, pomegranate, blood orange, spice, iron and white pepper. The Colonnello offers a striking mix of aromatic depth and fruit intensity. I imagine it will drink well with just a few years in bottle." Vinous

"The first Barolo from a single vineyard of the estate was introduced in 1970 – the same year that Aldo Conterno set up his own business. It comes from a one-hectare site with predominantly sandy soil rich in magnesium and manganese. The floral notes on the nose reveal the classic rose scent of Nebbiolo, nuanced by brushwood, roasted hazelnuts and earthy roots. On the palate, it resonates with clarity and precision. Raspberry and rhubarb underline the silky, fine tannins. But a warning: there are plenty of tannins! A hint of truffle pervades the finish. This is a wine to forget about for a few years." Decanter

"A restrained and elegant wine with aromas of citrus, leaves, dried cherries, orange peel and a tantalising hint of peppermint. The palate is graceful, despite the full body, taut acidity and firm, muscular yet velvety tannins, but everything is well packaged, balanced and poised. Long, lush and refreshing aftertaste." James Suckling