Tasting Notes: Elegance and austerity were the key words for Barolo from the 2013 vintage when they were released originally in 2018. Flavio works on his own schedule and decided that this particular Barolo would benefit from an additional 5 years. In that time, tannins have softened, tertiary notes have appeared, and this remarkable wine is just beginning to enter its long drinking window. Tobacco, earth, mushrooms, tar, roses, this is as complete a Barolo as you will find.
Estate History: Time seems to have stopped when entering the Bricco Appiani farmhouse of Flavio Roddolo. This reserved, quiet gentleman is the last of a breed, a truly genuine winegrower in Piedmont producing 20,000 bottles annually outside of Monforte. His obvious attachment to the land is reflected in every bottle he releases. Those wines all see extended cellar aging, as nothing is rushed at Roddolo. (His 2012 Barolo is the current vintage!) Flavio’s respect for his 6 hectares of vineyards is shown by his constant attention to his 15–70-year-old vines, none of which have been chemically treated for over 40 years. Roddolo uses only indigenous yeasts, and he does not clarify nor filter. The collection of wines is a pure reflection of the Monforte terroir and are as unique as the man himself: quiet and brooding at first, but with time open begin to reveal layers of richness, power and depth that is utterly stunning. Alongside an epic Barolo, rare Barbera and two sensational Dolcetto (he is a master of Dolcetto) is the greatest example of Cabernet Sauvignon in Piedmont.
