# Barolo Bussia Cicala (2020)

- **Producer:** Poderi Aldo Conterno
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Nebbiolo
- **Region:** Piemonte, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 15.0%
- **Average price:** €200
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Later
- **Serving temperature:** 18–20 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** red cherry, rose, violet, black cherry, black plum, cedar, cloves, vanilla, leather, earth, dried fruit, tobacco, mushroom

## About this wine

Barolo Bussia Cicala is a 100% Nebbiolo wine from the Bussia MGA cru in Monforte d'Alba, Piedmont. Produced by Poderi Aldo Conterno, a historic family estate, this wine represents a traditionalist approach to Barolo. The 'Cicala' vineyard is one of three cru plots owned by the estate within the Bussia geographical indication. The Conterno family's winemaking philosophy centers on respecting the territory and producing authentic expressions of Nebbiolo, with wines aged in large Slavonian oak casks.

## Interesting facts

- The vineyard name 'Cicala' translates to 'balm-cricket'.
- Vines in the Cicala vineyard average 40-45 years old.
- The estate emphasizes environmental respect and vineyard protection.
- Barolo Bussia Cicala is aged in large Slavonian oak barrels (botti grandi).

## Food pairing

The robust tannins and full body of Barolo Bussia Cicala are ideally suited to rich, protein-heavy dishes. The wine's structure can cut through the richness of braised meats and game, while its complex aromatics complement earthy flavors like mushrooms and herbs.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Barolo Bussia Cicala begins with spontaneous fermentation in stainless steel vats using indigenous yeasts. Maceration on the skins lasts for 30 days, with fermentation temperatures reaching peaks of 32 degrees Celsius. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 28 months in large Slavonian oak barrels. Viticulture follows traditional practices, with vines averaging 40-45 years old and grown in calcareous marl and sandy soils. Farming is conducted with respect for the environment, utilizing copper and sulfur while avoiding synthetic fertilizers and herbicides. Manual harvesting with vineyard selection is a key step in ensuring grape quality.