Alessandro E Gian Natale Fantino - Barolo Riserva Bussia Cascina Dardi 2015

Alessandro and Gian Natale Fantino, run the family estate in Monforte d'Alba in the historic center of town, inside a 17th-century palace. Alessandro managed the vineyards and he was cellarman in Bartolo Mascarello's winery for 20 years, from 1978 to 1997. Since 1998 he has dedicated himself to his family's estate alongside his brother full time.

Kermit Lynch (US Importer) notes: "Even with eight years of age, this plush Barolo from the Bussia cru in Monforte d’Alba is as striking and youthful as it’s ever been. Hints of toasty tobacco, violet, and roasted fig will draw you in, while the bottling’s energy and vigor will hold your attention. Raised in large Slavonian oak casks, this is one of the grander, more assertive Baroli we import. It’s a Barolo lover’s dream for a summer barbecue, or a candidate for serious aging."

"Just bottled, the 2015 Barolo Riserva Cascina Dardi is a real powerhouse. This full-bodied, potent Barolo packs a huge punch. It won't be ready to drink anytime soon, that much is obvious. Time in the glass brings out aromatic intensity and inner perfume. Spice and blood orange accents lend an exotic quality to this dark, layered Barolo. The Riserva is a wine for readers who appreciate the natural fragility of artisan wines, wines that aren't perfect but that perfectly embody the human spirit." - 96 points, Antonio Galloni Vinous

"Brothers Alessandro and Gian Natale Fantino run one of the under-the-radar jewels of Piedmont. Their tiny winery located in Monforte's historic center is easy to miss. Once again I was quite taken with the wines I tasted. The Fantinos favor relatively long aging for their Barolos relative to today's standards so these are the current releases. Readers who enjoy classically-built old-school Barolos will find much to admire." - Antonio Galloni Vinous

This one clearly overdelivers for its price point. A must for those classic style Barolo lovers.

Producer: Alessandro e Gian Natale Fantino

Country: Italy

Region: Piedmont

Varietal: Nebbiolo

Appellation: Barolo

Vintage: 2015

Size: 750ml