2011 was an important vintage for Conterno's Cerretta.

In 2011, it became undeniably clear that Cerretta is the real deal.

Roberto Conterno is one of the world's greatest winemakers. It's no surprise that Cerretta has already firmly established itself as an elite Barolo.

Conterno bought the site in 2008 and 2010 was the first vintage to carry the Barolo designation. The 2010 was stunning, but honestly so much from that vintage was. When it comes to the more challenging 2011 vintage, the 2011 Cerretta stood out as the best of vintage.

The 2011 Cerretta has always been a special wine for me. I spent the better part of a year amassing these double-mags and then, have hoarded them for almost as long.

Barolos from the 2011 vintage are known for a loose knit vibrancy, but Conterno's Cerretta works on an entirely different wavelength. This is a dead serious bottle. Its rigor and muscular depth stand out for the vintage.

There’s an explosive spectrum of dark red cherry, plum, spice, cedar and scorched earth. All of this is presented with unbridled energy and elegance. It's deeply soulful and intense, flaunting the perfectionism that Conterno is famous for.

Up until he purchased Cerretta in 2008, Conterno was mostly associated with the Cascina Francia vineyard. While Cascina Francia is known for its elegant mineral core, Cerretta is defined by its raw power and thrilling intensity. But for all of Cerretta’s muscle, it maintains a sense of refinement and grace.

There’s no doubt that this wine is destined for a long life. Galloni sums it up nicely when he writes, “this is going to be a fascinating wine to follow as it ages over the coming decades.”

I should just close by saying that Barolo Cerretta is always in short supply and when it comes to double magnums, it's even more limited. Please give us your ideal order and we'll try our best.

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

Ian McFadden

Director, Fine & Rare Wine
Crush Wine & Spirits