2011 Marcarini Barolo Brunate DOCG 750 ml

Cru Barolo As It Should Be

Produced from estate grapes planted in one of Barolo’s most acclaimed cru vineyards, this phenomenal wine is a wonderfully sophisticated expression of Nebbiolo that captures the fruit’s power and grace with delicious precision. Traditional Barolo must contain complex power and silky elegance, 2011 Poderi Marcarini Barolo Brunate is as traditional as it gets, which is why it’s so excellent. James Suckling backs up this assessment in his 94-point review, giving it high marks for having a “full body, round tannins, and a savory finish.” Brunate Barolo this excellent typically demands a price tag near triple digits; we have this exceptional Marcarini for $44.99.

According to Barolo’s winemakers and perhaps a little folklore, there were no scientific assessment or academic discussions that went down before Brunate Vineyard was planted in Barolo’s prestigious La Morra region. The original vintners took one look at the gently undulating hillsides and decided it was was a good place to grow Nebbiolo for Barolo. They were right — Brunate is now considered one of the most highly desirable crus in La Morra.

Few wineries may be better equipped to harness Brunate’s power than the Marcarini family. After all, they’ve been part of the La Morra winemaking scene since the 1850s. They’re still using traditional production methods on the roughly 11 acres of Brunate vines they claim for themselves, but they aren’t completely old-school. The use of modern pruning techniques allow them to keep grape yields low — a strategy that produces fruit practically bursting with the terroir’s exquisite character.

James Suckling calls the 2011 Poderi Marcarini Barolo Brunate “a rich and flavorful red.” While these words accompanied a 94-point score, they only scratch the surface. This is a remarkable display of elegance and complexity; one that is voluptuous on the palate and smooth on the finish — traditional Barolo as it should be.