Dunn Digest: Team Wine Journal
G.B. Burlotto: A Verduno Legacy
Whether you're a Barolo devotee, a serious collector, or looking for an exceptional Father’s Day gift, these wines check every box.
G.B. Burlotto has risen to near-mythical status in the Barolo world over the past decade—though its legacy in Piedmont stretches back generations. Based in the northern commune of Verduno, Burlotto produces wines known for their brilliance, finesse, and unmistakable elegance. The 2021 vintage, in particular, is shaping up to be one of the finest in recent years.
A Firsthand Visit to Verduno
Our own Keith Bailey, who you’ll often find working in the shop on Fridays and Saturdays, traveled to Barolo this spring and had the opportunity to taste the 2021 lineup at the estate with Fabio Alessandria, fourth-generation winemaker and current steward of Burlotto. His impressions are vivid and enthusiastic.
“We tasted in silence. The wines spoke for themselves. At every level, they were simply sensational.”
The Rise of Verduno
Not long ago, the village of Verduno barely registered in conversations about Barolo. Today, it's one of the region’s most sought-after sites, thanks in large part to Burlotto’s influence. The Monvigliero cru, in particular, has become synonymous with aromatic, elegant Nebbiolo. Fabio Alessandria’s work—grounded in tradition and full of character—has been instrumental in this rise.
“Fabio is thoughtful, generous, and modest. But behind the easy smile is a formidable winemaking talent.”
The Wines
Burlotto’s wines are traditionally made: long fermentations and aging in large old oak botti. Each Barolo in the lineup offers a distinct personality:
Barolo “Acclivi” – A selection from the best Verduno fruit, with classic aromas of rose and tar, but more structure—what Fabio calls “more shoulders.”
Barolo “Monvigliero” – Whole-cluster fermented, singular and instantly recognizable. Notes of sage, olive, and supple tannins make this one of the most compelling wines in Barolo.
Barolo “Cannubi” – From the warmer Cannubi Valletta site in Barolo. Concentrated, powerful, and a personal favorite.
Barolo “Castellero” – From Monforte, this wine is earthier, with more vertical tannins and classic Monforte grip.
A Tale of Two Vintages
2021 was a cooler vintage than 2020, marked by ideal day-night temperature shifts in September. The wines have freshness, tension, and gorgeous tannin quality. They’ll benefit from aging—but the wait will be worth it.
2020, on the other hand, is immediately approachable. Fabio himself remarked that it was the first vintage of Barolo at Burlotto that can truly be enjoyed on release. These wines offer ripe, nuanced Nebbiolo fruit in a supple tannic frame.
“In 2020, you don’t have to wait. You can drink them now and still experience something beautiful.”
Available Now at Dunn & Sons
Given their limited availability and well-earned reputation, we’re thrilled to offer these remarkable bottles to our customers.
Whether you're gifting, collecting, or simply savoring, these are wines worth knowing—and worth enjoying.
