2021 Poderi Aldo Conterno Il Favot Nebbiolo Langhe, Piedmont

The Poderi Aldo Conterno Il Favot Nebbiolo Langhe is a striking expression of Piedmontese tradition seen through a modern lens. Sourced from younger vines in the Bussia cru of Monforte d’Alba, Il Favot offers the purity and power of Nebbiolo in a more immediately expressive and generous style than its Barolo counterparts. But make no mistake—this is serious wine.

Aldo Conterno was a legend of Barolo, famously breaking away from his family estate in the late 1960s to form his own path. Today, his sons Franco, Stefano and Giacomo carry on his legacy, crafting wines that marry the structure of old-school Barolo with a polished, contemporary edge. Il Favot is their love letter to Nebbiolo’s floral, spicy, and tannic beauty, presented in a form that can be appreciated young but still benefits from cellar time.

The wine is fermented in stainless steel, then aged for around 18 months in 100% new French oak barriques—a technique not often seen with Nebbiolo, but one that here adds luxurious texture and refinement. In the glass, Il Favot delivers waves of cherry liqueur, raspberry compote, rose petals and sweet baking spices, all backed by fine tannins and vivid acidity. A touch of tobacco and cocoa lingers through the long, savoury finish.

This is a wine that sings alongside truffle risotto, duck with cherry jus, or mature cheeses like Taleggio or Castelmagno. It also makes a spectacular alternative for those who want Nebbiolo’s soul but aren’t ready to wait decades for a Barolo to soften.