2017 - Barolo San Lorenzo di Verduno, Fratelli Alessandria

Rich, bold and effusive, the 2017 Barolo San Lorenzo di Verduno shows the darker side of Nebbiolo from Verduno, as it always does. Black cherry, gravel, licorice, game, spice and cured meats are some of the many aromas and flavors that develop in the glass. Broad and ample, with tons of punch, the 2017 San Lorenzo delivers the goods, and then some.

A release of 5,000 bottles, the 2017 Barolo San Lorenzo di Verduno is one of the historic, battle-ready wines from Fratelli Alessandria. It has been made since their first vintage in 1997. Opening to a medium dark garnet color, the San Lorenzo di Verduno offers more substance and richness compared to the other wines in this estate portfolio. It offers quite a bit of textural richness and momentum, and the perfumes of the bouquet are also a little more pronounced as a result. This is a sturdy, rock solid wine to pair with important meat dishes, either stewed or roasted. The wine will be released in the fall 2021.

The 2017 Fratelli Alessandria Barolo San Lorenzo di Verduno has a bright color and lively peppery red fruits on the nose. The mid-palate is round and spicy with delicate strawberry flavors. It is juicy, very tangy and savory at the same time. The perception of tannins is grainier, drier and more savory. Verduno, close to the Tanaro river with its cooler winds, seems to bring out a spicy pepperiness. This vibrant, spicy, pepperiness makes these wines so characterful.

Verduno. Cask sample. Lustrous mid ruby with the beginning of orange tinges. Cool, dark-cherry fruit nose that is still a little backward and with a pinch of (oak) spice. Supple cherry and raspberry on the palate with juicy acidity followed by a big charge of ripe, powdery tannins. Sappy raspberry fruit in the finish, but closes up. Not ready yet. (WS)