Conterno Fantino Barolo Castelletto Vigna Pressenda 2018

Conterno Fantino, established in 1982, is one of the most prestigious producers in Piedmont, crafting wines that blend tradition with modernity. Located in Monforte d'Alba, the estate is known for its meticulous attention to detail, both in the vineyard and the cellar, producing some of Barolo’s most refined and structured wines. The Barolo Castelletto Vigna Pressenda comes from the Castelletto subzone, a vineyard site with calcareous marl soils, which lends the wine a distinctive elegance, minerality, and depth. The 2018 vintage was cooler than previous years, producing wines with fresh acidity, fine tannins, and a long aging potential.

Appearance: Deep garnet with ruby highlights, displaying intensity and concentration typical of Barolo, with slight orange hues indicating its youth and aging potential.

Aroma: Complex and layered, with aromas of ripe red cherries, wild strawberry, and plum, accompanied by floral notes of dried rose petals and violet. Earthy undertones of truffle, tobacco, and leather emerge, along with hints of liquorice, anise, and a subtle mineral edge, reflective of the calcareous soils of Castelletto.

Taste: Full-bodied and structured, with vibrant red fruit flavours like cherry, raspberry, and redcurrant balanced by savoury notes of tobacco, dried herbs, and earthy minerality. The tannins are firm but finely grained, providing the wine with excellent structure. A fresh acidity runs through the wine, lifting the fruit and adding a sense of balance and elegance. The oak aging is well-integrated, contributing subtle notes of spice, cedar, and vanilla without overpowering the wine’s natural character.

Finish: Long and persistent, with lingering notes of red fruit, leather, and earthy spices. The fine tannins and acidity give the finish a refined, polished feel, with great potential for aging over the next decade or more.

Food Pairing
This Barolo pairs wonderfully with braised beef or veal shank (osso buco), where the wine’s structure and tannins complement the richness of the dish. It would also be an excellent match for wild mushroom risotto or truffle-infused dishes, with the wine’s earthy complexity enhancing the depth and savoury notes of the meal.