Barolo DOCG Brunate 2020

The Barolo DOCG Brunate 2020 by Vietti is a Nebbiolo from the commune of La Morra that holds power and agility together. The nose is spicy and floral, with fruit of wild strawberry, sweet cherry and redcurrant finding its way to earthier notes via beetroot. Chalky nuances follow, through to wet chalk, salty liquorice, roasted coffee and mint, which emerges more clearly with air. Rosemary, sage and oregano add a layer of Mediterranean herbs.

Brunate is a historic MGA cru at 350 metres above sea level, a south-facing slope oriented towards the village of Barolo, with calcareous marl in the subsoil. Vietti has been based in Castiglione Falletto since 1873 and today farms 75 hectares across nine crus. Alfredo Currado began vinifying grapes from individual vineyards separately in 1961. In 2025, Doctor Wine named Vietti Azienda dell'Anno.

Nebbiolo from 51-year-old vines trained in Guyot. The grapes were harvested on 20 September, followed by gentle pressing and around three weeks of fermentation in steel tank with a permanently submerged cap. Malolactic fermentation already takes place in oak cask. Ageing takes place mainly in large wooden cask, supplemented by small barriques, and bottling is done without any filtration.

Plenty of power, but in orderly form: the wine is juicy, the tannin defines the palate while being fully integrated. It opens quickly, becoming softer and more approachable, while green herbal notes maintain freshness. The finish lingers for a very long time, chalky and saline.

With grilled red mullet with celeriac purée and red wine jus made from the bones, with smoked Jerusalem artichoke with gorgonzola, parsley salad and walnuts, or with roasted lamb rump with broad beans.

Since 1974, the bottles have featured original artworks by various artists, including a drawing by Pier Paolo Pasolini. Dry, 14.5% ABV.