Comm. G.B. Burlotto
History and Background
Commendatore G.B. Burlotto, established in the mid-19th century in the Barolo region of Italy, is renowned for its exceptional Nebbiolo wines. The estate was a pioneer in the production of Barolo, and under the current management of Fabio Alessandria, it continues to produce wines that are elegant, complex, and reflective of the unique terroir. Burlotto's dedication to quality and tradition has earned it a prestigious reputation among Italian wine producers.
Vineyards and Terroir
Comm. G.B. Burlotto's vineyards are situated in the Barolo region of Piedmont, Italy, covering approximately 12 hectares:
Soil Composition: The soils are composed of calcareous clay and marl, ideal for cultivating Nebbiolo grapes.
Grape Varieties: The estate primarily grows Nebbiolo, producing renowned Barolo wines, as well as Barbera and Dolcetto.
Wine Style and Production
Comm. G.B. Burlotto's wines are recognized for their refined elegance and intricate complexity. Typical flavor profiles include rich blackcurrant, succulent plum, and vibrant spice, complemented by nuanced aromas of tobacco and cedar. The wines are noted for their substantial nan content, which brings both freshness and robust tannins, enhancing their capability for long-term aging.
At the heart of Comm. G.B. Burlotto's winemaking is the goal of articulating the individual nuances of its terroir, marrying tradition with modern innovations. The estate prides itself on its sustainable and organic practices, emphasizing the importance of careful and precise vineyard management. Techniques such as hand-harvesting and selective green harvesting are employed to maintain the highest quality of grapes.
Reputation
Comm. G.B. Burlotto, an esteemed winery in the Barolo region of Italy, has long been celebrated for its exceptional approach to winemaking and unparalleled quality of wines. Founded in the 19th century by Giovanni Battista Burlotto, this winery gained prominent recognition under his guidance, particularly for achieving the rare feat of selling Barolo in bottles rather than casks, which was an unusual practice at the time.
Burlotto's wines are known for their traditional winemaking techniques. Unique among these is their preservation of the winemaking methods used by their founder, which includes extended maceration periods where the grape skins are left in contact with the juice for up to two months, much longer than the typical modern practice. Adding to its traditional allure is the winery’s use of a wooden vertical press and non-temperature-controlled aging in large, well-aged barrels that uphold the integrity and historical continuity of the wine's profile.
Moreover, Burlotto’s Barolo Monvigliero is particularly esteemed for being vinified from 100% Nebbiolo, undergoing fermentation from indigenous yeasts, and having no temperature control, reflecting an authentic expression of terroir and traditional craftsmanship. This dedication to maintaining traditional methods while producing high-quality Barolo has positioned Comm. G.B. Burlotto as a revered figure in the world of fine wines, admired by collectors and enthusiasts globally.
Final Thoughts
Comm. G.B. Burlotto stands out in the wine world for its remarkable adherence to traditional winemaking methods, particularly its insistence on using century-old techniques that many consider outdated but result in extraordinarily unique wines. Under the visionary leadership of the current proprietor, Fabio Alessandria, the estate has honed the art of crafting Barolo wines that are known for their finesse and expression of terroir. Notably, Burlotto’s use of whole-cluster fermentation, a rarity in the region, endows their wines with a distinctive character that garners international acclaim. Their Barolo Monvigliero, in particular, is acclaimed for its exceptional elegance and complexity, frequently earning high praise from critics and enthusiasts alike. This approach has not only preserved a piece of viticultural history but has also positioned Burlotto as a highly respected and sought-after name in Piedmont, offering a masterclass in the balance between tradition and quality in winemaking.