2022 Silvio Grasso - Barolo DOCG (750ml)

The Grasso family has been growing grapes in La Morra since 1927, though it was Federico Grasso who began estate bottling under the family name in 1980. What started as a 4.5-hectare holding has grown to 14 hectares today, with every vineyard situated in La Morra, home to celebrated crus such as Bricco Luciani and Bricco Manzoni. Federico now works alongside his sons Silvio and Paolo, and the estate has built a reputation for sophisticated, modern Barolos that favor restraint over heavy oak, a style Wine Advocate has praised for its polish and stylish, up-front charm.

This Barolo comes from Nebbiolo grown on calcareous clay soils in La Morra, fermented in stainless steel for around ten days before aging. Grasso favors large barrels over barriques for maturation, and even the single-vineyard bottlings see less than 30 percent new wood, an approach meant to preserve fruit purity rather than layer on oak spice. The wine typically spends about 24 months in barrel followed by another 12 months resting in bottle before release, a lengthy process that lets the tannins soften and integrate ahead of market.

The 2022 offers subtle red cherry and pomegranate aromas alongside dried herbs, with a savory, almost earthy undertone. The palate is medium to full-bodied, framed by chalky, angular tannins that add lift and keep the wine balanced rather than heavy. Pour this Barolo with braised veal, roasted duck, or a truffle-forward pasta dish.