Barolo Falletto, Bruno Giacosa 2021 75cl

Falletto is Bruno Giacosa's home vineyard, the Serralunga d'Alba cru he loved above all others, and a Barolo from this site carries a special authority. The 2021 is Nebbiolo from one of the most structured, long-lived corners of the Barolo zone, made in the uncompromising Giacosa style.

Serralunga d'Alba, in the eastern reaches of Barolo, is known for its limestone-and-marl soils and wines of formidable backbone. Giacosa owned Falletto outright and treated it as a grand cru, ageing the wine at length in large botti with no modern shortcuts. The result is Barolo of the old, noble school.

Expect a towering wine: dried rose and violet, tar and liquorice, red and black cherry, dried herbs, leather and a deep mineral core. The tannins are powerful and architectural, the acidity razor-clean, the finish immense. This is not a wine that flatters early — it demands and rewards patience.

At around £240 this is a benchmark Serralunga Barolo from a legendary hand. The 2021 vintage is classical and firm; give it time. It will begin to open around 2031 and hold and improve for two decades or more in a good cellar.

How to Serve

Serve at 17–18°C in a large Burgundy bowl. If opening young, decant three hours ahead — better still, cellar it and let the tannins resolve.

Where to Drink It

Locanda Locatelli, Marylebone — a cellar worthy of Falletto. Sartoria, Mayfair — deep in Piedmontese classics. Bocca di Lupo, Soho — for those who take Barolo seriously.

Food Pairings

Brasato al Barolo — beef braised slowly in red wine — is the definitive match. A plate of aged Castelmagno cheese will carry it to the finish.