Brezza Barolo DOCG Castellero 2013

If you are seeking out a masterclass in the old-school mentality of a Piedmont of yore, look no further than Brezza. Established in 1885, and still family-owned and operated, we are grateful for their uncompromising commitment to tradition, as their wines are quintessential expressions of a methodology of an older era. 4th-generation winemaker Enzo Brezza is now at the helm, making the bold (by Barolo standards) decision in 2010 to begin converting all of his vineyards to certified organic farming, gaining certification in 2015. Making use of compost, cover crops, and small tractors in the vineyard are but a few examples of his unwavering commitment to the health of his vines. This Barolo hails from a vineyard planted in 1970 situated at the very top of a hill at 270 meters with a southwest orientation. The vineyard is characterized by sandstone, and the resulting wine is well-structured in its youth but oh boy, has it evolved over time. Fermentation lasts for 7-8 days and maceration then continues for another 30 days. Malolactic takes place in cement vat before the wine ages for 2 years in Slavonian oak casks. The wine then sits in concrete for another 8 months and undergoes several rackings to allow bottling without fining or filtration. Aged for another year in bottle, the investment in patience is well worth it. Soft, purple flowers and pine flirt with brooding layers of tar and black licorice spice. Truly stop the world gorgeous. Certified organic, low-intervention/natural wine, vegan.