2015 - Barolo Acclivi, Comm. G.B. Burlotto

The 2015 Barolo Acclivi represents a blend of Nebbiolo from various hilltop sites in Verduno that have been selected for the quality of their fruit. The wine takes the concept of a Barolo "base" up one notch, because it represents a special selection of fruit that is not limited to a single parcel. This expression is grounded and even a bit heavier at its core, with more dark fruit and thickness that becomes its defining characteristic. This is especially true in a vintage like 2015 that already starts off with robust and sun-darkened fruit. The wine is not necessarily more accessible—because it is not—but it does offer a thicker caliber of Nebbiolo fruit.

The 2015 Burlotto Barolo Acclivi is superb. At ten years of age, it is still deeply colored and incredibly young, almost shockingly so. The 2015 is so impressive. It offers a whole range of Verduno floral/spice notes married to a slightly darker expression of fruit than most vintages. This example is exceptionally beautiful.

Verduno. Tasted blind. Concentrated ruby. Multi-layered, minerally nose with plenty of fruit and hints of exotic spice. Elegant, fluid palate with bags of fine tannins that fill out the fruit. Sensational length and complexity. Plenty of concentration and at the same time elegantly built. (WS)