2015 Giovanni Sordo Barolo 'Ravera'

Since the very early 20th century, generations of the Sordo family have been quietly collecting parcels of the finest Nebbiolo-growing soil in the Langhe. They now have numerous plots of vines in Roero, Barbaresco and particularly Barolo – where they actually own 17 pieces of cru classified vineyard and release an unprecedented 8 labelled (Barolo) cru wines from these, so far. A 9th may not be far off. These are a cavalcade of Barolos most famous names – many of them appearing in any list of Barolos Top 10 cru; Ravera, Monvigliero, Parussi, Perno and Gabutti and the revered Castiglione Falletto trio of Villero, Rocche di Castiglione and the elusive Monprivato; the one most thought was Giuseppe Mascarello’s monopole, isnt quite. Sordo started making theirs from 2013. Prior to that its been going into the normale.

The cru wines are all vinified the same way, a suitable lens to examine the differences between each site. Vinification is in controlled temperature of 30°, with submerged caps for up to 50 days. A further 2-4 months in steel, is followed by 24 months in large Slavonian botti. Giorgio Sordo likes the wines to have a further 4-6 months in steel, to “freshen them up” before bottling.

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From Novello. Typical earthy, iron-filings nebbiolo aromas, "rusty bucket", and quite complex. Typical Barolo. A slightly chunky shape. Ample tannins, firm and gently gripping, but balanced and very pleasing. Good fruit sweetness in the centre. - Huon Hooke, The Real Review

Super fresh, vibrant and fragrant nose with roses and herbs, as well as lighter red cherries. The palate has a deliciously zesty, taut texture with fine, tight tannins holding a long, powerful yet elegant finish - James Suckling

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Region - Barolo DOCG
Comune - Novello
MGA/Vineyard/Cru - Ravera
Variety - Nebbiolo