Fratelli Alessandria "Comune di Verduno" Barolo 2020

Press 2 • November 2024 Direct Press Selection

When our manager and buyer Jonathan Kemp first tasted this wine, his verbatim reaction was “Oh, f— yeah.” It’s the best description for the bottle I’ve heard yet. While the Alessandria family started their estate in 1870, they’re still a bit of an undiscovered gem, at least to American audiences — probably due to the relatively recent resurgence of Verduno as a premier Barolo-producing region.

Hopefully, we can play a small part in bringing more attention to this organic producer. The 2020 Barolo is a great way to get acquainted with them (and, coincidentally, makes a great gifting bottle for any wine appreciator). With its bright notes of red cherries and wild strawberries, accompanied by violet, dried rose petals, vanilla, and clove, it’s a real treat for the senses. Already, there are tertiary aromas of dusty leather and sweet tobacco that only add to the wine’s complexity. To me, it’s a classic expression of Barolo — supple and structured without being heavy, with integrated, high-toned tannins. The wine is ready to enjoy now with your holiday roast, but could easily cellar for another decade or so. Kate Masters