Deep garnet color; black cherry, sour cherry, cranberry, plum, licorice, oak spice, cloves, vanilla, rose, leather, earth, truffle on the nose and palate.
Dry; significant tight, tasty tannins; some balancing acidity. Medium body. Vivid dark fruits, all organically grown. Made with nebbiolo grapes grown in Cerrati, in Serralunga d’Alba. Aged 30 months in Eastern European carvalho botti. At nearly five years, just barely emerging into its best drinking window and can be aged another 15+ years. Decanting strongly suggested. 14.5% ABV
Tenuta Cucco is part of a family operation. The website explains: “Tenuta Cucco became part of Tenimenti Rossi Cairo, the holding company covering the agricultural activities of our family, in 2015. We were attracted by the rows of the Cru Cerrati vineyard that surround the winery, the antique structure of the cellar, the tasting room with a view of mount Monviso and the nearby presence of an extraordinary French stronghold: the Castle of Serralunga d’Alba. Nature and history, intertwining in the Langhe territory, reach a true high point in this context. We immediately realized that Tenuta Cucco could be a new opportunity to continue our project of practicing and promoting high quality sustainable agriculture, which safeguards diversity while preserving the territory for future generations.”
The winery and vineyards have a long history. In 1966, the Cappellan family sold Tenuta Cucco to the Stroppiana family family. The Stroppiana family built the first winery, prior to that grapes from the property were sold to other producers. The website notes: “In January 2015 the estate passed to the Rossi Cairo family, which for more than 20 years has run the organic and biodynamic farm La Raia in Novi Ligure.” The Rossi Cairo family brought the same attention to organic and biodynamic grape growing to Cerrati vineyards.
Tenuta Cucco Barolo Cerrati 2020 delivers concentrated dark fruit flavors. As a Barolo made with 100% nebbiolo grapes, this wine is made for long aging. Going into its fifth year, it is just peeking through its drinking window. Decant if you drink it now, or let it age a decade or two. Well balanced with firm tannins and good acidity. A splendid effort from a winery committed to organic and biodynamic production. Pair with rich, hearty beef dishes; truffle risotto; lamb; pasta dishes with flavorful meat and tomato sauces; grilled pork chops, slow-cooked pork; barbecue beef and pork; slow-cooked brisket; wild game—venison, boar, duck. Cheese—intense, complex cheese will pair best; parmigiano-reggiano, grana padano, castelmagno, aged pecorino, gorgonzola, fontina. Fresh or mild cheeses will be overwhelmed by this wine. $75-90
