Ceretto, the well-known producers in the prestigious Langhe area (Piemonte, north of Italy), has launched a new Barolo this year: it is the one coming from the cru Bussia and the warm vintage 2015. Ceretto, a reference point of this territory, and not only for the quality of the wines, enriches the range with this historic cru located in area of Monforte d’Alba, known for the production of powerful and structured wines with intense colors.

Barolo Bussia by Ceretto comes from a small parcel (just 7000 sqm) in the heart of Bussia Soprana (meaning upper Bussia vs “Bussia Sottana” meaning lower) with vineyards of about 25 years and an organic certified viticulture (although managed biodynamically). The 2015 production is less than 4,000 bottles and has undergone 10-15 days maceration, a maturation of about 30 months in wooden barrels (300 l and 50 Hl) and at least 1 year in the bottle.

The 2015 vintage was characterized by above-average temperatures in the May-July period with almost total lack of rain in July; the situation improved in the following months with rainfall and cooler temperatures in September. The harvest was slightly anticipated with reduced quantities but quite high quality grapes.

I had the opportunity to taste this new wine at Enogenova, the classy wine event organized by the owner of the distributing agency Fabrizio Ciardelli, and I found a quite traditional character with incisive power and freshness. Although still not fully developed, the bouquet is very fine with notes of wild violet, red oranges and a touch of forest floor (wet soil, mushrooms) that prevails over notes of black currants. High potential for ageing.