Fratelli Seghesio La Villa Barolo 2016

The steep slopes of Seghesio's winery in Monforte d'Alba were not always carpeted in vines. It was in 1964 when Ettore Seghesio, a tenant farmer working the land, saved enough money to purchase the farm from its owners and had the foresight to plant vineyards of Nebbiolo! For many years, the family's grapes were sold off in bulk to other regional producers. In 1998, Ettore's sons, Aldo and Riccardo, took over the family estate and began bottling wine under the Seghesio label. Their outstanding terroir and a perfect blend of traditional and modern vinification methods produce lovely wines that the Italian and international press has dramatically praised. Riccardo is now at the helm of the estate after Aldo's sudden passing in 2010. In addition, Aldo's two sons, Sandro and Marco, and his daughter, Michela, now work full-time at the estate. This is truly a family operation steeped in tradition.

A big, juicy red with plum, berry, cherry and hints of cedar character. It's full-bodied but remains agile and structured. Flavourful finish with chewy tannins.

The 2016 Barolo la Villa is a more complete and elaborate wine than the classic Barolo, also released by Fratelli Seghesio. There is more depth here and less of that ripeness that I encountered in the other Barolo. This wine has more layers with dark fruit, licorice, iron ore and crushed limestone. These various aromatic elements come together with pretty harmony and focus. The finish is smooth and firmly structured, revealing an elegant and genuine personality. Fruit comes from the oldest vines in the Castelletto cru of Monforte d'Alba.