The village of Cherasco lies just outside of La Morra and not far from Verduno.

Unlike La Morra and Verduno, Cherasco exists in almost absolute obscurity.

Even the fact that we can write "almost" is big news. Umberto Fracassi is the only producer in the Barolo sub-zone of Cherasco and the wines hit the U.S. market with his 2013 vintage.

The combination of his traditional approach and the stunning 2013 vintage brought immediate attention to the estate.

Fracassi is well known in the Barolo area, but if you go looking for information on Fracassi, you will not find much. Levi Dalton's I'll Drink To That! interview with Umberto Fracassi Ratti Mentone is pretty much the sole source of information on the estate.

The style is focused on a light and lifted elegance with a darker fruit profile and exacting precision. The 2013 Barolo vintage is all about finesse and clarity, and this is on bold display in the Mantoetto.

Fracassi's 2013 "Mantoetto" is classically structured and possesses a really remarkable drive and length. There's impressive nuanced complexity where earth, flower, herbs and spice seamlessly intermingle. You can feel the influence of the heavy limestone soils in the fineness and tension-filled core.

For Piedmont fans and value seekers, this is a wine that we really suggest you check out. We're very grateful that Umberto Fracassi has remained in Cherasco and stayed true to traditional methods.

To order, reply to offers@crushwineco.com or call the store at (212) 980-9463.

Joe Salamone

Wine Buyer
Crush Wine & Spirits