Giacomo Conterno is, for many collectors, the single greatest name in Barolo. Based in Monforte d'Alba and now led by Roberto Conterno, the estate makes Nebbiolo the old way, and its wines rank among the most sought-after and cellar-worthy in all of Piedmont.
A traditionalist estate in the heart of the Langhe
The house traces back to the early twentieth century, and its modern reputation was forged by Giovanni Conterno across the decades after the war. In 1974 he bought the Cascina Francia vineyard in Serralunga d'Alba, the source of the estate's flagship wines ever since. Roberto Conterno took the reins in 2004 and has added two more prized Serralunga crus, the Cerretta vineyard in 2008 and almost all of the storied Arione in 2015. Everything is estate grown, and nothing here is ever rushed.
The uncompromising Monfortino style
The winemaking is classic to the core: long macerations, fermentation in wooden vats and years of ageing in large casks rather than small barriques. The result is Nebbiolo of remarkable depth, structure and longevity. Barolo Cascina Francia is the benchmark bottling, joined by the single-vineyard Cerretta and Arione. Above them sits Barolo Riserva Monfortino, made only in the finest vintages and aged around seven years in cask before release, one of the most collectible red wines in the world. The estate also makes serious Barbera d'Alba from the same holdings.
Giacomo Conterno FAQ
What is Barolo Riserva Monfortino?
It is the estate's flagship, a Barolo made only in exceptional years and aged far longer than a standard bottling. Rare and costly, it is one of the most revered wines in Italy and repays decades in the cellar.
Should I drink these wines young or cellar them?
Cellar them. Even the Cascina Francia bottling is built for the long haul, and young Conterno Barolo can be tightly wound. Give it ten years or more, or decant it well ahead of dinner.
What else does the estate make?
Beyond Barolo, look for the excellent Barbera d'Alba and a Langhe Nebbiolo from younger Cerretta vines, a more approachable way into the house style.