Located in Monforte d'Alba, Poderi Aldo Conterno is considered one of the finest producers in the region. The son of legendary producer Giacomo Conterno, Aldo formed his own estate in 1969 and was inspired by the modernist techniques of Angelo Gaja. Aldo sadly passed away in May 2012 and the estate is now run by his three sons, Franco, Stefano and Giacomo. They tend 25 hectares of vines including three cru vineyards on the famed Bussia slope in Monforte d'Alba. These three vineyard sites, Cicala, Colonello and Romirasco are the flagship wines from the estate through the entire range from the entry level Bussia Soprana is superb.

Alluring aromas of black currant, cherry, licorice and mint are set against a backdrop of vanilla and toasty oak notes in this red. Ripe cherry and plum flavors ply the middle as this plays out on the long, fruit- and spice-filled aftertaste. Best from 2023 through 2043. Date: Feb 2020; Rating: 95 Points; Bruce Sanderson; Wine Spectator

The luster of new oak shines bright here, as do the very bright and assertively ripe cherries and red plums, as well as orange zest. The tannins are a highlight with a very fluid and fleshy core of red-fruit flavor, building to a tight and long finish. This is regal Barolo. Try from 2023. Date: Nov 2019; Rating: 98 Points; Nick Stock; JamesSuckling.com