Ceretto Barolo Bussia 2020

Ceretto is a long-established family producer in Piedmont, now in its third generation, with holdings across the Langhe. This Barolo comes from organically farmed cru vineyards in the heart of Bussia Soprana, in Monforte d'Alba, one of the most respected crus of the appellation. The calcareous marl soils of Bussia, rich in clay and limestone, suit late-ripening Nebbiolo and give wines of structure and perfume, while the south-facing slopes secure the full ripeness the grape needs. Following fermentation and malolactic conversion, the wine spends 30 months in oak, the long, slow maturation that traditional Barolo demands to resolve Nebbiolo's high tannins and let oxygen build its complex, savoury character. The colour is bright garnet, lightening at the rim. The nose shows red cherry, dried rose and violet, with tobacco, liquorice, tar and dried herbs. The palate is full bodied, with firm, fine tannins, high acidity and a long, earthy, savoury finish that will reward cellaring. Serve at 17 to 18 degrees in a large glass and decant for one to two hours. It pairs with rich beef, mushrooms and truffle, and aged cheese.