Bel Colle is a traditional maker based in Verduno (Barolo). Their wines are clean and precise, they practice sustainable viticulture, followed by manual harvesting, soft pressing of the grapes, balanced macerations: each phase has the objective of bringing the balance and the harmony of the grapes obtained in the vineyard into the glass intact.

Barolo D.O.C.G. “Monvigliero” wine grows in the vineyards from one of the best area of Verduno, located in Barolo villages at 200 to 300 ft. above sea level. The average age of the vines is 50 years old, and they are grown on a southern exposure in calcareous clay soils, at a density of about 5,000 plants per hectare. 

The great cru of Verduno, and something of a favourite of mine. It’s a bit locked in and compressed initially, but give it some air and it roars out of the glass. Dark cherry, liquorice root, spice and perfume, a ‘mineral’ crushed rock kind of thing happening. Sweep of pumice stone tannin, freshness and cool minty acidity, and a long sweetly tannic and red-fruited finish. Terrific release here. Will age magnificently. Tasted: Mar 2020; Alcohol: 14.5%; Price: $125; Closure: Cork; Drink: 2023-2036; Rated: 96 Points; Gary Walsh; The Wine Front