2021 Einaudi - Barolo Ludo (750ml)

Poderi Luigi Einaudi traces its history back over a century in Dogliani, a legacy built by a family that includes Luigi Einaudi, who would go on to become the first president of the Italian Republic. In 1997 Roberto Einaudi and his daughter Paola completed a long-sought acquisition of prized Nebbiolo parcels in Cannubi, a purchase that had originally fallen through decades earlier when the seller learned who the buyer was. Today the estate farms holdings across some of Barolo's most storied crus, including Cannubi, Monvigliero, and Bussia.

Ludo takes its name from the Latin word for playful, and draws on Nebbiolo from the estate's youngest vines across Barolo, Monforte d'Alba, and Verduno. The grapes ferment in vitrified concrete tanks under careful temperature control, followed by post-fermentation maceration and racking after several weeks. The wine then ages in a mix of large cask and smaller tonneaux, an approach meant to preserve freshness and approachability rather than heavy structure.

The 2021 shows a bright garnet color with aromas of red plum, strawberry, jasmine, and dried rose, opening into a medium-bodied palate of succulent red fruit, baking spice, and fine, silky tannins. It's an excellent introduction to Barolo, equally at home with braised beef, aged Toma cheese, or a simple mushroom risotto.