Wines Barolo Giacomo Conterno - Cerretta - 2018

Giacomo Conterno’s Barolo DOC Cerretta 2018 is a striking example of Nebbiolo from one of Piedmont’s most iconic producers. This particular cuvée hails from the Cerretta vineyard, a site renowned for its calcareous marl soils combined with a favourable south-facing aspect, contributing to both the power and the finesse of the wine. Crafted exclusively from Nebbiolo, the grapes undergo a rigorous selection followed by traditional vinification: fermentation in large oak vats and extended ageing in botti, the large neutral wooden casks emblematic of Barolo’s classic style. The resulting 2018 displays enormous potential, with layers of red cherry, dried rose petals, liquorice, and subtle truffle, enlivened by firm yet refined tannins.

The Barolo region sits at the heart of the Langhe hills, where a continental climate with hot summers, fog-laden autumns and cool winters shapes the character of Nebbiolo—delicate in aroma but robust in structure. The unique combination of altitude, exposure, and mineral-rich soils imparts a remarkable ageing capacity to these wines. The history of Barolo stretches back to the 19th century, where noble families laid the groundwork for producing one of Italy’s most noble red wines, and Giacomo Conterno remains a benchmark of traditional Barolo-making, holding steadfast to time-honoured methods.

Barolo Cerretta 2018 is a gastronomic delight and pairs particularly well with the hearty cuisine of Piedmont. It shines alongside rich dishes such as braised beef (brasato al Barolo), wild mushroom risotto, game, or classic tajarin pasta with a white truffle shaving. For cheese pairings, opt for mature Parmigiano-Reggiano or Castelmagno.

To fully appreciate its depth and complexity, decant the wine for at least two hours prior to serving. The ideal tasting temperature is between 17-19°C, which allows the nuances of Nebbiolo to unfold gracefully. While approachable now with airing, the 2018 Cerretta will reward further cellaring for years to come.