2018 Barolo Bussia Luigi Einaudi

A historical winery between Barolo and Dogliani. The interpretation of one of the classic cru of Monforte d'Alba, one of the latest company acquisitions in the Dardi sub-area. Nose of raspberry jam, then blood orange peel and geranium. Mouth with savory tannins, fruity-citrus finish.

The 2018 Barolo Bussia captures all of the aromatic intensity and nuance that is so typical of the best wines from Monforte's Bussia district. Strong spice and floral notes lead into dark fruit laced with super-expressive balsamic overtones. Rose petal, mint, blood orange and cinnamon linger on the exquisite finish.

Bright berries and a hint of pomegranate, together with damp chalk and some fern. Medium-bodied with a tight, focused palate and firm, light-grained tannins. Quite a racy feel to this now. Should broaden out with another couple of years in bottle. Try from 2024.

The 2018 Luigi Einaudi Barolo Bussia is from the Bussia vineyard in Monforte d'Alba, 350 meters above sea level and with south-south-west exposure so this should be a location of potential power and personality. The nose is a little closed at the moment but clean. It has a lean, angular style and it lacks a little mid-palate richness and flavor right now. This Barolo feels quite austere in style, but the tannins are very nicely managed with a fine tannic finish and fresh acidity adding some brightness.