Giacomo Conterno
The reference for traditional Barolo. Famous for the Monfortino bottling — extended-aged Nebbiolo from the Cà del Munt vineyard.
About Giacomo
Giacomo Conterno is the canonical traditional Barolo producer — a small family estate in the Monforte d’Alba commune producing some of the longest-aged, most uncompromising Nebbiolo in Piedmont. The estate is most famous for Monfortino — a Riserva Barolo released only in exceptional vintages after at least seven years aging in large Slavonian oak botti, often eight or more years. Monfortino is not a single vineyard but a selection from the estate’s holdings; in recent years it has been produced primarily from the Cà del Munt and Francia vineyards. The estate’s broader range includes the regular Cascina Francia Barolo and Cerretta Barolo, both excellent in their own right but living in Monfortino’s shadow. Roberto Conterno (current generation) maintains traditional methods: long macerations, no temperature control during fermentation, extended aging in large Slavonian oak. The wines require extreme cellaring — 15-25 years minimum from strong vintages for Monfortino.
Flagship wines
- Monfortino Riserva Barolo
- Cascina Francia Barolo
- Cerretta Barolo
- Barbera d’Alba Vigna Francia
Editorial notes
Monfortino is released roughly every 2-3 years on average. The 1958 and 1971 are legendary; 1990, 1996, 1999, 2002, 2008, 2010, 2013 are modern landmark vintages. Cellar 15-25 years minimum.