Noble heritage, regal wines

Recently hailed “European Winery of the Year” by Wine Enthusiast, Fontanafredda has long been a leading light of the Barolo region. While the estate’s majestic origins and enviable vineyard holdings may have once been its greatest pride, today its commitment to sustainable practices and top-quality winemaking sets it apart.

A Royal Beginning

Until the mid-19th century, the current-day Fontanafredda estate was a hunting ground. In 1858, it was purchased by Italian King Vittorio Emanuele II as a gift for his mistress, “La bella Rosin." The production of fine red wines from the native Nebbiolo, Barbera, and Dolcetto grapes soon followed.

“Just like great Burgundies, Barolo should reveal itself little by little, rather than all at once." – Danilo Drocco, Head Winemaker

The Finest Terroirs

The Fontanafredda estate boasts the largest contiguous vineyard in the Langhe. Over 100 hectares form a natural amphitheater, spanning the prized terroirs of Serralunga d’Alba, Barolo, and Diano d’Alba. The well-oriented, hilly terrain is blessed with warm days and cool nights, ensuring long, slow ripening. The resultant wines possess great elegance, with highly nuanced aromatics, powerful structure, and fine tannic grip.

Leaders in Sustainability

In 2016, Fontanafredda began the process of converting their entire estate to organic farming. As of 2019, they will be the largest certified organic producer in Piedmont. They have reduced their water consumption by over 20% in recent years, reusing wastewater to irrigate green spaces around the winery and installing a phytodepuration plant.

A Modern Traditionalist

Danilo Drocco believes in marrying classic and modern aging techniques for his Barolo. The wines spend one year in small French oak barrels before being transferred to large, seasoned casks for a second year. According to Drocco, the barrels intensify the fruit, while the large casks ensure that the tannic structure and oak expression are subdued.

Behind the Wines
Giorgio Lavagna