Luigi Baudana - Barolo Cerretta 2017 (750ml)

Decanter 94 points
"Classically ‘Serralunga’ in character, the 2017 is still backward. Aromas suggest tobacco, tea leaf, hazelnut and mossy undergrowth. A steely, irony structure grips the tight, angular palate. Tannins are concentrated - as is the acidity – becoming grainier as they relent. A rush of salted black liquorice, white blossoms and granite washes across the finish. Give this time. From two plots - one on the northern slope of the Cerretta hill where Sant'Agata fossil marls meet Diano d'Alba sandstone, and the other on the east which sits on pure Lequio formation."

Jeb Dunnuck 96 points
"A sweet perfume lifts from the 2017 Barolo Cerretta, with fresh violets, kirsch, cinnamon, and sage. The palate is energetic with forward fruit through the mid-palate with persistence, with tea leaf and present but well-integrated tannins. The Cerretta displays the elegance that is possible within the 2017 vintage. Drink 2022-2040.Since 2009, Luigi Baudana has been under the operation and ownership of the G.D. Vajra estate from Barolo. As with the Vajra estate, Giuseppe and Aldo manage the winemaking process, along with Giuseppe’s brother Isidoro, the vineyard manager. They continue to consult with Luigi for his understanding of the land and experience. They utilize primarily 15- to 17-hectoliter Slavonian barrels for aging, as the size of the cellar dictates. For the Barolo del Comune di Serralunga d'Alba bottling, selections are made from the crus of Baudana, Cerretta, and Costabella. With the 2019 vintage, they are now certified organic."
 
Vinous 95 points
"A dark, somber wine, the 2017 Barolo Cerretta shows the more potent, brooding side of Serralunga. Black cherry, gravel, smoke, cured meats, cloves and menthol add to an impression of virile intensity and pure power. Readers will have to be patient here, but there is certainly a ton to look forward to. This is another impressive showing from Baudana and the Vajra family."