# Alberto Burzi Barolo (2018)

- **Producer:** Burzi
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Nebbiolo
- **Region:** Piemonte, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €51
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** lavender, rose, strawberry, redcurrant, hibiscus, linden, magnolia, leather

## About this wine

The Burzi winery is a dynamic, young estate in Piedmont, Italy, helmed by siblings Alberto and Caterina Burzi. Alberto took over the family's 7 hectares of vineyards in La Morra in 2012, which had previously been leased to other renowned producers. His sister Caterina joined him in 2018, bringing their grandparents' dream of a family winery to fruition. Their philosophy centers on crafting elegant, concentrated wines that are a true expression of the Langhe and La Morra terroir. The vineyards, some featuring vines up to 90 years old, are managed organically, emphasizing a deep respect for the land and its heritage.

## Interesting facts

- The Burzi family vineyards, now managed by Alberto and Caterina, were previously leased to other well-known Barolo producers.
- Some of the Nebbiolo vines in Burzi's vineyards are remarkably old, reaching up to 90 years of age.
- The winery began using spontaneous fermentation for its wines starting with the 2021 vintage.
- Siblings Alberto and Caterina Burzi are fulfilling their grandparents' long-held dream of establishing a family winery.

## Food pairing

This Barolo, with its full body, pronounced aromatics, high acidity, and firm yet balanced tannins, demands rich and savory food. The wine's structure is perfectly complemented by protein and fat, which soften the tannins, while its acidity cuts through the richness of dishes. Earthy notes in the wine find harmony with mushrooms and truffles, and its intensity stands up beautifully to aged, hard cheeses. The complex flavor profile of the wine enhances and is enhanced by robust, flavorful cuisine.

## Wine making process

The winemaking at Burzi focuses on meticulous vineyard management and thoughtful cellar practices. Viticulture is organic, with a strong emphasis on low yields achieved through manual pruning. The harvest is also done manually, ensuring only small, optimally ripe fruit is selected. To preserve the unique genetic heritage of their old vines, massale selection is employed. As of 2021, the winery has embraced spontaneous fermentation, allowing indigenous yeasts to guide the process and further express the wine's natural character.