Barolo 2021: 17 unmissable labels about to hit the market

The 2021 Barolo vintage is particularly outstanding, characterised by great energy and length, with wines designed for long ageing.

The Nebbiolo challenge: preserving freshness

"Today," explains Marina Marcarino, president of Albeisa and producer, "in a constantly evolving context due to climate change, the main challenge is adaptation, which we are tackling through study, observation, and the adoption of agronomic strategies to preserve the freshness of our wines. Nebbiolo, in particular, has shown extraordinary resilience, as evidenced by the excellent results of the 2023 vintage, despite high temperatures and prolonged drought. Producers," Marcarino continues, "are focused on maintaining vineyard balance through careful soil management and pruning techniques to reduce plant stress. At the same time, new solutions are being explored, including genetic innovations, to better address future challenges in a climate that remains unpredictable and full of uncertainties."

Tasting preview: 17 labels from the 2021 Vintage

The 2021 harvest stood out for its more traditional character: a rainy season with abundant snowfall led to wines that express elegance, classicism, and harmonious evolution.

98 Points

Barolo Acclivi 2021 – G.B. Burlotto (Verduno, CN)
A Nebbiolo that embodies Verduno at its finest. Aromatic and pure in the glass, it showcases splendid personality and character. Enthralling, with hints of stone fruits and delicate herbs. The palate is a triumph of flavours—subtle yet intense, with irresistible drinkability. A wine full of emotion.

96 Points

Barolo Bussia 2021 – Parusso (Monforte d'Alba, CN)
A darker aromatic profile, rich in caramel, coffee, and small dark fruits. Juicy yet fresh, with menthol notes and radiant dynamism. Agile and effortless, with captivating contrasts of light and shade. The palate is both tense and sweet, exuding immense charm and depth.

Barolo Cerviano Merli 2021 – Abbona (Dogliani, CN)
A wine of ethereal aromas and dreamlike elegance, exuding magical allure. Exceptionally refined, with a stunningly beautiful palate where fruit and tannin achieve perfect harmony. Deep and indulgent, it unfolds with increasing intensity, offering an exhilarating expression of Barolo.

Barolo Ravera 2021 – Gian Luca Colombo - Segni di Langa (Roddi, CN)
From a 0.4-hectare vineyard over 50 years old, this cru boasts immense future potential. A version of extreme grace and elegance, with aromas of violet flowers and delicate spices. The palate reveals intense concentration, silky texture, and superb tannin management.

Barolo Angela 2021 – Mauro Marengo (Novello, CN)
A selection of grapes from Barolo (Terlo) and Novello (Ravera), offering vibrancy and complex aromas. The palate delivers bright tension and length, with striking brilliance, elegance, and finesse. An endlessly flavourful and dynamic Nebbiolo.

95 Points

Barolo Serra 2021 – Prunotto (Alba, CN)
A lively and fresh rendition, with juicy notes of ripe red berries, fresh herbs, and dark wildflowers. This second vintage of Barolo boasts structure, solidity, and a well-integrated tannic weave. A modern and approachable style with lasting presence on the palate.

95 Points

Barolo 2021 – Carlo Revello & Figli (La Morra, CN)
A convincing Nebbiolo with layered aromas of violets, cherries, and earthy-meaty undertones. Sourced from Manoncino (Serralunga d’Alba), Bricco Manescotto, and Annunziata (La Morra). Cheerful and radiant, it ensures a delightful and carefree drinking experience.

95 Points

Barolo 2021 – Réva (La Morra, CN)
An enticingly aromatic profile, spanning from fresh berries to wild and aromatic herbs. Grapes from Monforte, Serralunga d’Alba, and Grinzane Cavour contribute to a Nebbiolo of overall excellence—vibrant, sun-kissed, taut, and decisive. A finely structured wine with a precise tannic weave and a lively, spicy finish.

95 Points

Barolo Bussia 2021 – Giuseppe Rinaldi (Barolo, CN)
An unmistakable classic, instantly recognisable. Defined by its elegant spice, with subtle citrus hints blending into notes of coffee and tobacco. A deep, structured, and powerful wine, with a highly expressive and well-articulated character.

95 Points

Barolo Sottocastello di Novello 2021 – Ca’ Viola (Dogliani, CN)
From Novello’s vineyards, this Nebbiolo is restrained and austere on the nose but reveals its strength and character on the palate. Fresh and spicy, it maintains great rhythm while embracing complexity. Supple and seamlessly integrated tannins lead to extraordinary persistence.

94 Points

Barolo San Lorenzo di Verduno 2021 – Daniele Pelassa (Montà, CN)
A sharply defined and precise expression, confident, dynamic, and savoury. The palate unfolds with remarkable vigour, concluding in a rich, flavourful, and brightly acidic finish. A contemporary, charismatic, and passionate sip.

94 Points

Barolo Vigna La Rosa 2021 – Fontanafredda (Serralunga d'Alba, CN)
Initially austere on the nose, yet luminous and expressive on the palate, demonstrating character and depth. In this vintage, it offers fluid drinkability with a well-executed development and a juicy tannic finish.

94 Points

Barolo Meriame 2021 – Paolo Manzone (Serralunga d'Alba, CN)
Grown on south-west facing calcareous clay soil, this Nebbiolo exudes delicate aromas. Elegantly refined, the palate showcases depth and seamless balance. A wine that reflects Serralunga’s terroir with magical harmony—an outstanding interpretation of the vintage.

94 Points

Barolo Bussia 2021 – Famiglia Anselma (Barolo, CN)
Still compact in its aromatic profile, revealing layers of spice. A firm grip at the centre of the palate delivers fantastic flavour that lingers. Meaty and textural, constantly evolving with intriguing complexity. Well-defined and impressive in its finish.

93 Points

Barolo del Comune di La Morra 2021 – Ghëddo di Giovanni Pippia (La Morra, CN)
A classic Barolo made in the traditional style, bringing together the finest grapes from various communes. Precise and well-ordered, its palate is expansive yet composed, balanced, and richly textured. Solid, refined, and effortlessly drinkable.

93 Points

Barolo del Comune di La Morra 2021 – Crissante Alessandria (La Morra, CN)
With vibrant aromas of flowers and small berries, this wine is bright and inviting. Its structure and power emerge at the core, shaping a complex yet noteworthy character. While not yet fully balanced, it promises great evolution over time.

93 Points

Barolo Le Coste di Monforte 2021 – Diego Conterno (Monforte d'Alba, CN)
Initially stern and rigid on the nose, but quickly developing into a lively, radiant experience. It boasts great texture and natural agility, executed with precision. A sincere and unadorned wine, free to express itself fully.