The Cavallotto family have been tending their land just north of Castiglione Falletto since the late 1920’s. 5 generations and they know every contour of their 25 hectares. At 300-350 metres above sea level, and with south to southwest facing vineyards, Cavallotto have the ideal aspect for Nebbiolo to yield its best results. Indeed facing southward is critical to Nebbiolo. It really needs sunlight. Otherwise this late ripening grape doesn’t deliver its best. As vines grow, Alfio confirmed Nebbiolo’s vigorous nature, preferring as it does to produce greenery and wood rather than fruit. That’s why vineyard, and in particular canopy management, plays such an intrinsic role.

One interesting comment Alfio made about the 2016 season is that so far there has been little snowfall where they are located. In a zone where snow usually provides an important source of water for spring and early summer growth, he told us it remains to be seen if this might present a difficulty for 2016. One to keep an eye on for sure.

The entirety of Barolo DOCG is now well mapped out showing the individual cru. Its got quite a similar look to Burgundy in France. Indeed throughout the tasting many similarities were drawn between Barolo & Burgundy and between Nebbiolo & Pinot Noir. Interesting stuff, more about that another day.

Work in Barolo is Slow and Steady. From harvesting the Nebbiolo, we’re talking miniumum 38 months, of which 18 months must be in wooden barrels. Barolo is a wine in constant evolution, one that in time will show what it wants to show. We’re not looking to big up its complexity. We honestly don’t need to. Rather, we’d simply like you to know that it’s damn nice to drink too!

And hey, if like us you can’t always afford the hefty price tag, why not just get a couple of heads together and have everyone chip in. Afterall, when it comes to Barolo, something this good is made to be discovered and shared, together.

In the company Of Monsters & Men, Barolo is best appreciated Slow and Steady!