The 2021 Ceretto Barolo DOCG Brunate is one of the flagship wines of Ceretto Azienda Vitivinicole and a benchmark expression of one of Barolo's greatest Grand Cru vineyards. Produced from the legendary Brunate MGA (Menzione Geografica Aggiuntiva), this exceptional single-vineyard Nebbiolo combines the power of La Morra with remarkable elegance, perfume, and longevity.
The Ceretto family has been a driving force behind the international reputation of Barolo for more than half a century. Today, the estate is recognised for its certified organic vineyards, meticulous attention to terroir, and refined winemaking philosophy that allows each cru to express its individual personality.
Brunate is one of the most historic and prestigious crus in Barolo, straddling the communes of La Morra and Barolo. Its south-facing slopes, situated between 230 and 400 metres above sea level, feature classic Tortonian marl soils rich in limestone and clay. These conditions consistently produce Nebbiolo with extraordinary aromatic complexity, silky tannins, and exceptional ageing potential.
The highly acclaimed 2021 vintage provided near-perfect conditions for Nebbiolo. A long growing season with warm days and cool nights allowed the fruit to develop outstanding concentration while preserving freshness, aromatic precision, and vibrant acidity.
The grapes were hand-harvested before gentle fermentation with extended skin contact to maximise complexity and structure. The wine was then matured in large Slavonian oak casks, allowing the vineyard character to shine while refining the naturally powerful tannins of Brunate.
The bouquet is captivating and intensely perfumed, opening with aromas of wild rose, violet, red cherry, raspberry, blood orange, and crushed strawberry. Layers of liquorice, star anise, dried herbs, tar, cedar, graphite, and subtle truffle emerge with time in the glass, revealing the extraordinary complexity for which Brunate is renowned.
The palate is refined yet powerful, combining concentrated red berry fruit with beautifully sculpted tannins and vibrant natural acidity. A distinctive mineral backbone provides precision and energy, while the finish is exceptionally long, elegant, and persistent, carrying notes of rose petals, cherry, savoury spice, and crushed stone.
While approachable after extended decanting, the 2021 Ceretto Barolo Brunate is built for long-term cellaring and is expected to evolve magnificently over the next 25–35 years.
Winery: Ceretto Azienda Vitivinicole
Region: Barolo DOCG, Piedmont, Italy
Vineyard: Brunate MGA
Variety: 100% Nebbiolo
Vintage: 2021
Style: Single Vineyard Barolo
Alcohol: 14.5% (approx.)
Closure: Cork
Food Pairing: White truffle risotto, braised beef, osso buco, roast venison, wild boar ragù, porcini mushroom dishes, and aged Parmigiano Reggiano.
