Barolo, Gramolere, 2021
The twentieth anniversary vintage of Gramolere. At this stage, more introverted and earth bound, less aromatic, more impactful on the palate – mint and stones and a touch of smoke. Bright in colour with energy and a certain tannic force. History has shown it to age graciously, with cut and sinew and mineral spark. From a 2ha plot inherited by Vittore’s mother, a Manzone (of the Giovanni Manzone estate). Steep and west facing at 400m elevation, dark soils, the vines are an impressive 60 years old; harvest takes place a week later here than in Verduno.
critic reviews
From a vineyard site in Monforte d'Alba, the Fratelli Alessandria 2021 Barolo Gramolere (with 7,000 bottles produced) shows a little more structure and power with tightly knit fruit, dark plum, ferrous earth and licorice. This vineyard comes to family ownership via the matriarch, Flavia Manzone, who was born in this village. Polished tannins push a smooth-sailing mouthfeel.
The 2021 Barolo Gramolere is a hugely promising wine. Black cherry, gravel, spice, new leather, licorice and crushed rocks add to an impression of gravitas. A dark, hulking wine, the 2021 is going to need time to be at its best. Today, it is a touch reduced, but a racking should take care of that.