In 2007, we let RWC clients in on a little secret: Burlotto's Barolo “Monvigliero” is magic in a bottle and the greatest measure of winemaker Fabio Alessandria's genius.

From that point on, until 2017, RWC clients were insiders to one of Piemonte's best-kept secrets. But once Antonio Galloni gave the 2013 Monvigliero 100 points, Fabio's gifts were a secret no more. And now that he's received two 100-point ratings in the same vintage—for 2016 Barolo Monvigliero and Cannubi—his position at the very pinnacle of the Langhe hierarchy will be known to all.

But Fabio doesn’t just make great Barolo, he makes great everything, from Dolcetto to Freisa to Pelaverga. And apart from his majestic Barolos, his special Barbera cuvée “Aves” has consistently been his most impressive wine. Aves is also one of his greatest bargains.

Production has always been small. But since the 2017 vintage, it's become even smaller, due to the loss of one of its vineyard sources due to disease. Now, Fabio must rely on just two parcels of very old Barbera vines, in Verduno’s Neirane cru and in Castagna. Today, only 300 cases are made.

Deeply colored, with intense fruit, the 2019 Aves has the supple texture and balance for which Fabio's Barolo's are famed. Yet, the structure is there for a decade of aging.

It's gift for lovers of classic Piemontese winemaking.