2020 Conterno Fantino Barolo Vigna del Gris, Piedmont

A pretty, layered aroma and elegant, vibrant palate add up to greatness in this structured, complex and age-worthy wine. Balsam, rose petals, violets and cinnamon meet snappy sour cherry, raspberry and star anise on the palate. Best from 2028 and onwards.

96 points Jim Gordon jamessuckling.com

The 2020 Barolo Ginestra Vigna del Gris exhibits ripe fruit, dried cherry skin, plum, oak spice, medicinal cherry or cola, classic baking spice and coconut flakes. There is plenty of fruit on the palate, and it's not going anywhere soon, so you have some legroom for aging. The acidity and the tannins are balanced, and only the oak feels a little too prominent. Give it time. 9,000 bottles were made.

94 points Monica Larner robertparker.com

Conterno Fantino Barolo Vigna del Gris from Piedmont is a stunning example of the power and elegance that Barolo is known for. Crafted by Conterno Fantino, a winery that has earned a reputation for producing wines that beautifully express the unique terroir of the Langhe, this Barolo is a true reflection of their dedication to quality and tradition. The Vigna del Gris vineyard, located in the heart of Barolo, produces some of the finest Nebbiolo grapes, which form the foundation of this exceptional wine.

The vineyard’s soil composition and south-facing slopes allow the Nebbiolo vines to ripen slowly, developing deep flavors and maintaining a fine balance between fruit intensity and acidity. The wine is made with a hands-off approach, using traditional methods of fermentation in large oak casks, followed by extended aging in French oak barrels. This allows the wine to mature gracefully, enhancing its complexity and bringing out the best qualities of the Nebbiolo grape.

In the glass, Vigna del Gris Barolo reveals a deep garnet color with orange hues that develop as it ages. The nose is rich and inviting, with aromas of ripe red cherries, dried roses, and a touch of leather, all underscored by earthy notes and hints of spice. On the palate, it’s full-bodied with structured tannins that provide both power and elegance. The dark fruit flavors of cherry and plum are complemented by subtle nuances of tobacco, licorice, and a hint of truffle, giving the wine a layered and complex profile. The finish is long and persistent, with a lingering note of dark fruit and spice, promising even more depth as it continues to age.

Conterno Fantino Barolo Vigna del Gris is a wine that pairs beautifully with rich, flavorful dishes. It’s perfect with roasted meats like lamb or beef, pasta with truffle-based sauces, or hard cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano or Pecorino. With its aging potential, it can be enjoyed now or cellared for years to come, allowing it to evolve and develop even greater complexity over time.