2022 Barolo Bussia

The Wine

This historic wine, first crafted in 1961, was the first time single vineyard wine in Barolo DOCG.

CLIMATE

The 2022 vintage will be remembered as an early and surprising one. Early, because harvest operations concluded at the beginning of October; surprising, because despite the seasonal trend, the vines once again demonstrated extraordinary adaptability. Weather conditions were unusual from the very first winter phases, with dry and mild weather persisting throughout the entire growing season. The lack of significant rainfall and higher-than-average temperatures during June and July prompted the vines to self-regulate, limiting vegetative growth and reducing cluster size. Under these climatic conditions, the grapes ripened in perfect health, with smaller-than-average berries and high sugar concentration. The grape harvest began on September 20th and was completed on September 29th.

Vineyards

Barolo Bussia DOCG comes from the splendid amphitheater-shaped vineyard in the Bussia Monforte d’Alba area. This historic wine was produced for the first time at Prunotto as a single vineyard wine in 1961. The balance and complexity of the Nebbiolo grapes are enhanced by the vineyard’s varied south to southwest exposure and the traditional aging in large barrels.

Winemaking

Grapes were carefully sorted, destemmed, and crushed. Maceration on the skins lasted for approximately 8-10 days at a maximum temperature of 30 °C (86 °F). Malolactic fermentation was completed before the end of winter. The wine was aged for at least 18 months in oak barrels of varying capacities.

HISTORY

The Prunotto estate is located in Alba, the most important city in the Langhe area halfway between Barbaresco and Barolo on the right side of the Tanaro river, on gentle plains surrounded by vineyards in the Langhe and Roero territories. The natural beauty of the gently rolling hills alternate with small sloping valleys covered by rows of meticulously cultivated vineyards. The Antinori family, charmed by such rich natural beauty, unique vineyards and soils, decided to invest time and energy in this terroir to make Prunotto one of the most important winemaking estates in the Piedmont region.

Tasting Notes

Barolo Bussia 2022 is intense garnet red in color. On the nose, notes of cherries in alcohol and fruit preserves are intertwined with sensations of rose and dried violet, cinnamon and pepper, nutmeg and vanilla, and at times hints of licorice, cocoa, tobacco, and leather. On the palate it is intense and structured, supported by soft, sweet, silky tannins. The finish is long and harmonious, with lingering fruity notes and hints of aromatic herbs.