Let’s jump over to the eastern side of the Barolo region, the northeastern corner to be exact, where we find the commune of Castiglione Falleto. These Barolos are known for their velvety texture, balanced medium tannins, rich bouquet of aromas, and their concentrated and bold flavors. The cru vineyards in Castiglione Falleto include:
Bricco Rocche – This vineyard has ideal exposure. The “bricco” in the name means “top of the hill”, while the “rocche” refers to the cliffs that surround the vineyard. The site produces deeper colored Barolos with hints of smoke and vanilla.
Fiasc – Grapes from the Fiasc vineyard show a lot of earthiness and power, perhaps due to the mixing of the Tortonian and Helvetian soils. Some of the most complex Barolos are produced here, though they may be a bit too much for first time Barolo drinkers.
Mariondino – The wines from the Mariondino vineyard tend to be racier and sleeker than most Barolos, and tend to have a bit more spice to their taste.
Monprivato – Southwestern exposure and chalky gray soil leads Monprivato grapes create strongly perfumed Barolos.
Parussi – Barolos from the Parussi vineyards tend to have hints of leather and sandalwood with a long finish.
Pira – The soil in the Pira vineyard ranges from limestone to blue stone. These are some of the earthiest Barolos out there; it’s not uncommon to taste hints of hay and soil.
Rivera – The Rivera vineyard produces solidly structured Barolos that combine flavors of earthiness and spiciness.
The commune of Castiglione Falleto itself is known for an extremely beautiful stretch of the Strada del Barolo e Grandi vini de Langa, a road that leads visitors through some of the most beautiful wineries and scenery in the area.
