After one sip, it will come as no surprise that the fruit behind this exceptional Nebbiolo originates in Renzo Castella’s small vineyard along the border between Diano d’Alba and Serralunga d’Alba, Barolo. There’s a phrase in the local dialect, “Baroleggiano”, that more-or-less means a wine hailing from a vineyard that not only borders Barolo, but is able to telegraph Barolo’s structure and aromatics—this bottle is a perfect example! There’s a palpable density, minerality, and “seriousness” here that separates it from more pedestrian “Nebbiolo d’Alba” or “Langhe Nebbiolo” appellation reds. A classic core of dark cherry fruit ties everything together, along with textbook rose, violet, and white pepper aromas.