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Where would you find one of the greatest wines of Italy? Not far from Turin, in the Piedmont region, is the ultimate and purest expression of Barolo. The Barolo DOCG qualification requires that 100% Nebbiolo grapes are used, a blue variety primarily used to make red wine that imparts a high tannin content, resulting in wines that benefit from extended cellaring. It is uncertain where the name comes from, but one theory is that the name comes from the word nebbia, or 'fog' because of the fog-like haze that appears on almost-ripe grapes. Another theory is that it comes from the word nobile – 'noble.'. Barolo’s most famous label, Giacomo Conterno, embodies the quintessence of "traditional" Barolo: rich, powerful, massively structured and capable of long development in the bottle.

These magnificent wines descend from a venerable legacy, spanning three generations of Conternos: Giacomo, Giovanni and Roberto; in each case, the torch passing from father to son. Both Giovanni, who forged a reputation as the greatest of all Barolo producers, and now his gifted son, Roberto, have continued the important work of patriarch Giacomo.

Monfortino, the Conterno crown jewel, is not only arguably the greatest Barolo; it was also the very first made in what has come to be known as the "classic" style.

Originally, Barolo was often sold in either casks or demijohns, intended for early drinking. But after the First World War, Giacomo decided to create a Barolo with immense aging potential. His first wine was a 1920 Barolo Riserva, and he soon adopted the name “Monfortino” in honour of his home village Monforte d’Alba. For the next 54 years, Giacomo and his son Giovanni made Barolo in much the same way.

Our 15 November sale in Christie’s Geneva showcases the greatest 20th century vintages of Conterno, including Barolo Riserva 1927, 1934, 1937 and 1945 but also the great Monfortino wines from 1952, 1958 and 1961, 1970. Importantly for this kind of wine, provenance and condition are key: They have never moved from the cellar in Turin, all have been carefully stored and maintained in perfect condition.  

A special tasting including all these wines – 'Barolo From Giacomo Conterno' – will be held at the Hôtel des Bergues in Geneva on the 14th of November.

Upcoming Auctions:
3 November 2011
Fine and Rare Wines Including Two Superb European Cellars
London, King Street

15 November 2011
Fine Wines
Geneva

19 November 2011
Fine and Rare Wines
New York

20 November
151ème Vente des Vins des Hospices de Beaune
Paris

21 November
Finest and Rarest Wines
Amsterdam

22 November
Fine Wine and Vintage Port
Amsterdam

26 November
Finest and Rarest Wines – Part II
Hong Kong

1 December 2011
Wine
London, King Street