2021 Barolo Cannubi

The organic Brezza 2021 Barolo Cannubi is a delicate and finely textured Nebbiolo with earthy aromas, dried cherry and crushed flowers. That earthy note ties into a savory side of tobacco and warm spice. The open-knit fruit is balanced, and the wine concludes with silky tannins that are resolved even at this young stage in the wine's life. You can drink this Barolo straight out of the gate. That immediacy is becoming a more common feature with Cannubi fruit, especially in the warm vintages. Winemaking sees 10 months in stainless steel followed by 24 months in Slavonian oak casks. Production is 8,315 bottles.

A medium red color, the 2021 Barolo Cannubi is a touch more shy initially before revealing notes of baked strawberries, anise, crushed roses, and fresh leather. Medium-bodied, the palate has a good deal of elegance, balanced with ripe tannins and a light savory and gamey feel through the mid-palate and finish. While I like where it is now, it’s going to likely improve and come together more completely and possibly with more focus in another 6-12 months. Drink 2026-2038.

The 2021 Barolo Cannubi is another terrific wine from Brezza. Readers should expect a relatively stern Cannubi, a Barolo that emphasizes structure and tension over the sensuality that is such a signature of this site. Time in the glass brings out scents of dried rose petal, espresso, mint, dried herbs and crushed autumn leaves. This will be especially fine if the tannins soften.