6 bottles per lot
Details
Where will you find one of the greatest wines in Italy? Not far from Torino in the Piedmont region, the ultimate and purest expression of Barolo can be located. Its most famous label, Giacomo Conterno, embodies the quintessence of 'traditional' Barolo: rich, powerful, massively structured and capable of long development in 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.
Christie's November sale 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.
Importantly for this kind of wine, provenance and condition are key: never moved from Torino, all have been carefully cellared and maintained in perfect condition. A special tasting including all these wines - 'Barolo From Giacomo Conterno' - will be held at the Htel des Bergues on 14 November.
Barolo Riserva--Vintage 1927
Piedmont. G. Conterno
Reconditioned at the Domaine during August 1971. Wax capsules. Slightly dusty labels otherwise perfect appearance. Levels at 3cms or better below base of corks
6 bottles per lot