Cavallotto Barolo Riserval 'Vignolo' 2018

Cavallotto Barolo Riserva 'Vignolo' 2018
DOCG Barolo, Piedmont, Italy
Grape: 100% Nebbiolo
Certification: Organic (IT BIO 015)

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Producer

One of the most sublime family domaines of all time remains quietly under the radar in Piedmont — its immense value still largely undiscovered by even the most seasoned connoisseurs. Founded in 1928 in the heart of Castiglione Falletto, the cradle of restrained power where intensity is expressed without weight and elegance lingers eternally, the Cavallotto family crafts timeless, authentic Barolos in the region’s most traditional and faithful style.

In the words of renowned critic Antonio Galloni:
"Cavallotto may very well be the greatest Barolo producer most people have never heard of."

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Wine

The Barolo Riserva ‘Vignolo’ 2018 is born from one of Cavallotto’s most distinctive parcels: the MGA Vignolo, located on a steep southwest-facing slope. With just 1.35 hectares planted in 1966, this tiny parcel delivers grapes of the highest profile and remarkable mineral definition.

Vinification follows the classic methods of age-worthy Barolo: spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts, followed by extended maceration (20–35 days) in large Slavonian oak casks (botti) using the “cappello semisommerso” method. The wine then ages for 4 to 5 years in botti, staying true to the most traditional practices of the region.

The result is a Barolo of great aromatic depth, enveloping texture, and pronounced mineral tension. The 2018 vintage shows a more refined, precise style, with restrained dark fruit, earthy notes, black tea, and fine leather. Firm yet harmonious tannins and vibrant acidity support a long, authoritative finish.

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Points

94+ points – Robert Parker (previous vintage 2017)
"The 2017 Barolo Riserva Vignolo (made with organically farmed fruit) reveals extra richness and mineral definition, giving the wine precision and focus."
(Note: review for the 2018 vintage not yet published.)

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Technical details

• Region: Barolo DOCG, Piedmont
• Subzone: MGA Vignolo
• Altitude: Steep southwest-facing slope
• Soil: Calcareous marl
• Vine age: Planted in 1966
• Fermentation: Native yeasts
• Maceration: 20–35 days in botti, cappello semisommerso
• Ageing: 4–5 years in large Slavonian oak casks
• Certification: Organic (IT BIO 015)
• Bottle: 0.75 l

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Tasting notes

A Barolo of aromatic depth and vibrant mineral tension. Restrained black fruit, earth, black tea and fine leather. Firm but harmonious tannins, vibrant acidity, and a long, commanding finish.

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Food pairings

• Braised veal chop
• Ossobuco with gremolata
• Roast duck with herbs
• Aged hard cheeses (Parmigiano Reggiano, Grana Padano, Comté 24M)

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