Barolo Castellero DOCG 2020

Barolo Castellero DOCG 2020 / Giacomo Fenocchio / Piedmont
Red wine from Italy

At the core of Barolo lies the Nebbiolo grape, whose name derives from the Italian word nebbia, meaning “fog”—a reference to the pale bloom that forms on the berries at full ripeness. Nebbiolo thrives in calcareous soils and cool microclimates, such as those found on the Castellero hillside. This site is distinguished by its mineral-rich marl, excellent sun exposure and natural ventilation—conditions that foster slow, aromatic ripening and exceptional grape quality.

The Barolo Castellero DOCG is crafted using time-honoured methods. Following a meticulous hand harvest in early October, the grapes undergo a 40-day maceration and fermentation without additives. The wine then matures for six months in stainless steel, followed by 30 months in large Slavonian oak casks. The result is a deep garnet-hued wine with a complex bouquet of cherry, violet, liquorice and delicate spice. On the palate, it reveals power, structure and a velvety texture—underscored by outstanding ageing potential.

Culinary pairings highlight the wine’s depth and elegance: aged cheeses, game dishes, braised meats and truffle-infused pasta are particularly well-suited. Mushroom ragouts, herb-crusted lamb or a perfectly grilled ribeye also make excellent companions to this refined expression of Barolo.

General properties

• Vintage: 2020
• Ageing: Trocken
• Country: Italy
• Region: Piedmont
• Volume: 0.75 litres

Detailed properties

• Producer and bottler: Giacomo Fenocchio - Loc. Bussia 72 - 12065 Monforte d'Alba (CN) - Italia - +39 0173 78675
• Quality Designation: Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG)
• Grape: 100% Nebbiolo in the subvarieties Michet and Lampia from the Castellero hillside in the municipality of Barolo.
  
• Vineyards area: 0.8 hectare.
• Exposition: West.
• Altimetry: Hilly area at 280m above the sea-level.
• Soil: Tortoniano, marly with tuff and a significant proportion of sand that keeps it always dry.
  
• Age of the vineyards: 30 years.
• Grape yield per hectare: 70 quintals.
• Harvest: First two weeks of October.
• Vinification: Traditional method with long maceration; natural fermentation without addition of yeast for about 40 days in stainless steel tanks.
• Ageing: 6 months in stainless steel tanks, 30 months in large Slavonian oak barrels (20-25 hl) - subsequent refinement in the bottle.
• Production: 4,000 bottles per year.
• Special features of the 2020 vintage: The 2020 vintage was marked by balanced climatic conditions, offering an ideal growing season for viticulture. Regular, yet moderate rainfall and pleasantly temperate summer months created a stable environment that allowed for even ripening of the grapes—reflected in the wine’s harmonious structure and depth. In particular, the gentle variation between daytime and nighttime temperatures during late summer encouraged the development of complex aromas and helped preserve a fresh acidity. Under these favourable conditions, the Nebbiolo grapes matured slowly, resulting in refined tannins and excellent ageing potential. Enhanced by optimal ventilation and the mineral-rich soils of the Castellero hillside, the 2020 vintage achieved remarkable aromatic clarity and depth, making it one of the most expressive wines from this esteemed site.
• Scent: Layered and expressive, the wine opens with ripe, juicy notes of cherry and plum, providing a fruit-forward foundation. This is complemented by delicate floral hints of faded violets and potpourri, lending an elegant and distinctly Barolo-like character to the bouquet. Spicy undertones of tobacco, leather, liquorice and pepper, along with a subtle smoky nuance, add depth and complexity. The aromatic profile is rounded off by touches of oak, coffee and spice, indicative of a balanced and carefully managed barrel ageing process.
• Taste: Powerful yet well-balanced, the wine is supported by finely integrated, silky tannins that lend it structure and depth. A fresh, precisely calibrated acidity contributes to its elegance and highlights its ageing potential. On the palate, it offers a full-bodied and smooth mouthfeel, culminating in a long, mineral-driven finish that leaves a lasting impression. The aftertaste is layered and persistent, with the aromatic notes from the nose clearly echoed throughout.
• Colour: Garnet red with orange reflections that intensify with age.
• Alcohol content: 14.0 to 14.5 % Vol.
• Total acidity: From 5.3 to 5.8 g/l
• Closure type: Natural cork.
• How to serve: Goes perfectly with rich dishes such as roast beef, game, truffle dishes and mature cheese. Its tannins and acid structure make it an ideal accompaniment to fatty and protein-rich dishes.
  
• Recommended serving temperature: Between 17 und 18°C. The Barolo should definitely be decanted prior to consumption.
• Potential: Under optimal storage conditions (constantly cool, dark, vibration-free), this wine can mature for at least 15 to 20 years, gaining aromatic depth, finesse and harmony.
• Allergens: Contains sulphites.
• Scope of supply: 1 disposable bottle of wine 0.75 litres.

Grape variety

NEBBIOLO

Nebbiolo is a noble red grape variety cultivated mainly in Piedmont, a region in northwestern Italy. It is particularly well known for its role in renowned Italian red wines such as Barolo and Barbaresco. Its name derives from "nebbia", the Italian word for mist, which refers to the white coating that forms on the berries when fully ripe. The history of the Nebbiolo grape in Piedmont dates back to at least the Middle Ages, when monks are believed to have cultivated this variety, particularly in the hills around Alba and Asti. During the Renaissance and early modern period, viticulture gained importance in Piedmont, and the Nebbiolo grape established itself as one of the region's most important varieties. The first records of Nebbiolo wines date from this era. In the 18th century, Piedmontese winemakers intensified the cultivation of the Nebbiolo grape, particularly in the hills of the Langhe and Roero, and in the areas of Barolo and Barbaresco. These regions soon became the most famous producing areas for Nebbiolo wines. The 19th century marked a golden age for Piedmontese winemaking. The Nebbiolo grape was further refined, and famous wines such as Barolo and Barbaresco were developed. This period also saw the perfection of certain winemaking practices and production techniques that are still used today. Today, Piedmontese winemaking is experiencing a renaissance. The cultivation of Nebbiolo has evolved, with winemakers increasingly relying on sustainable practices and adopting cutting-edge technology to improve the quality of their wines. The leaves of the Nebbiolo plant are medium-sized, rounded and dark green, often five-lobed and slightly wavy. The grapes are usually medium-sized, cylindrical or slightly conical in shape, and have a loose structure that promotes good ventilation and reduces the risk of fungal diseases. The berries are relatively small, with thin, delicate skin and a bluish-black colour. They ripen late in the season, which is typical for this variety. Nebbiolo thrives best in hilly or mountainous regions with calcareous soils, making Piedmont its ideal habitat. The best Nebbiolo wines often come from areas with specific microclimates that allow for slow ripening and optimal aroma development. The berries contain a high concentration of tannins and a balanced acid structure, which gives the wines made from this variety structure, complexity and longevity.