At a glance

Producer

Azienda Agricola Conterno Fantino

Region

Barolo DOCG, Piedmont, Italy

Grape variety

Nebbiolo (100%)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$70-$100

Tasting profile

Red cherries, tar, rose petals, earth, with hints of licorice and spice. Youthful vibrancy dominates.

Evolution: Develops complex tertiary notes of leather, truffle, forest floor, and dried herbs over decades.

At peak: Balanced silky tannins, layered complexity, and refined aromatics with lingering finish.

Structure

Acidity

High and vibrant, giving excellent aging potential

Tannins

High and firm, typical of classic Nebbiolo with fine grain

Alcohol

Around 14-14.5%

Aging potential

30-40 years, classic long-term Barolo

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2030 to 2050

Optimal window

2028 to 2053

Current status

Approaching early drinking window, still developing tertiary complexity

Current condition

Youthful tannins and primary fruit flavors with good structure; evolving complexity expected

A 2018 Barolo from Conterno Fantino's Sori Ginestra vineyard benefits from vintage quality and producer's focus on organic farming, resulting in structured tannins and acidity ideal for long-term cellaring. The wine will soften and gain complexity after 10 years, maintaining peak quality through 2040 and beyond.

Food pairing

Braised beef, truffle risotto, aged cheeses, roasted game birds, hearty stews.

Serving

Serving temperature

18°C / 64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — Helps integrate firm tannins and open aromatics in young Barolos

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Organic viticulture with no synthetic pesticides or herbicides; sustainable vineyard management focusing on soil health; energy-efficient winery operations; water conservation measures implemented

Conterno Fantino maintains solid sustainability credentials through certified organic farming and conscientious winery practices. Their focus on environmentally-friendly viticulture and moderately low-impact logistics gives them a good sustainability score relative to premium Italian producers.