Conterno Fantino - Barolo Castelletto Pressenda 2017

Established in 1982 by Guido Fantino and Claudio Conterno, the winery is scenically set overlooking the most ancient part of the medieval village of Monforte d’Alba, with a sweeping view of the majestic Southern Alps. Becoming quickly a cult classic, Conterno Fantino is one of the top producers of the region. The new generation has now taken over the 27 hectare organically farmed estate. The philosophy is still based on a modern approach promoting respect for the environment (biodynamic principles for vineyard management, solar panels and geothermal systems in the cellars), and ambitious wine making: manual harvest in small crates, spontaneous fermentations with indigenous yeast, French oak barrels for ageing, and minimal use of sulfites. The resulting wines are enticing, dense, deep, and elegant, amongst the most refined in Piedmont.

Organic / biodynamic - 100% nebbiolo. Castelletto is a large and steep vineyard located between Monforte d’Alba and the frazione of Perno along the confines of Serralunga d’Alba. Vigna Pressenda is a subzone of Castellotto, right in the middle of the Hill, that features older marls from Lequio Formation

This is very structured with fantastic tannins that frame the wine. Dark fruit with ripe strawberries, as well as wet earth and dried black truffles. Full and chewy. Tight finish. Needs four or five years to open. Try after 2025.

96 James Suckling

The 2017 Barolo Castelletto Vigna Pressenda is a gorgeous, exotic wine. Rose petal, orange peel, cinnamon, cedar and red berry fruit all open in a beautifully layered, super-expressive Barolo from Conterno-Fantino. Beams of Castelletto tannin extend the finish while lending a real feeling of vibrancy throughout. The balance of purity and structure is compelling.

94 Vinous

Vanilla, resin and eucalyptus aromas give way to cherry, plum, iron and tobacco flavors in this well-structured red, which is balanced and resonant on the long finish, needing time to absorb the oak. Best from 2025 through 2042.

94 Wine Spectator

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