Acclaimed wine critic Antonio Galloni once dubbed Fratelli Alessandria “one of Piedmont’s under-the-radar jewels.” Their vineyard holdings rival anyone’s in the region—especially those of their neighbor, G.B. Burlotto, whose reputation and prices have skyrocketed in recent years. But Fratelli Alessandria has never flown under our radar—we’ve featured every single vineyard they’ve produced over the years. What unites them all is an enduring finesse and a pitch-perfect expression of the “Burgundian” side of Barolo. These wines are amazingly accessible just a year after release, yet they age effortlessly for 10 to 15 years.
The 2020 “Gramolere” is a case in point—a gorgeous, out-of-the-gate Nebbiolo with elegant, refined tannins. It still shows glimpses of power and firm backbone, hallmarks of Barolo from Monforte d’Alba. “Gramolere” lies adjacent to “Bussia,” the village’s most famous vineyard. And while many 2020 Bussias have tipped over the $100 mark, today’s offering delivers stunning value.
This one checks every box for a multi-bottle buy. Take over 10% off with a 3-bottle purchase. Enjoy one soon (after a 30–60 minute decant), and revisit the others over the next five to ten years.
The aromas show off Nebbiolo’s inimitable array of fruity and savory notes: black cherry, red currant, plum, blood orange, fennel, leather, dried rose petals, sandalwood, and a truffle-y, forest-floor earthiness. Medium-plus in body, its tannins are powerful yet perfectly integrated, especially after 60 minutes in a decanter—it is spicy and savory, but also refined and drinkable, with a long and aromatically floral finish. This is spot-on, textbook Barolo in every way. Molte Grazie!
Accolades:
98+ points Luca Gardini, GardiniNotes.com:
"A plot with vineyards of 40 years located between Gavarini and Bussia. A wine of great refinement, nose of cranberry, then hints of chinotto, nuances of carnation and eucalyptus. The mouthfeel is briny, with tension and density. The finish is citrusy and balsamic. Great persistence. (Apr 2024)"
94 points, Kerin O'Keefe (Former Italian Editor for Wine Enthusiast):
"Aromas of underbrush, dog rose, forest berry and new leather form the nose on the full-bodied 2020 Gramolere from Fratelli Alessandria along with a whiff of toasted nut. On the palate, taut, fine-grained tannins accompany juicy Bing cherry, strawberry compote, licorice and nutmeg before closing on a hint of hazelnut. Tightly woven, velvety tannins provide support.
