RENATO RATTI
BAROLO SERRADENARI
PIEDMONT, ITALY 2020
Why Buy: A powerful, swaggering 96-point Barolo Cru from the great Renato Ratti — the producer that, perhaps more than any other, has defined the "elegant, graceful, rich, supple style of Barolo," wrote Robert Parker, "that can be drunk when released” (though, he was quick to add, they are just as "marvelous" after spending some time in the cellar). Add to that a 2020 vintage that Vinous declared notable for its "graceful," "elegant," and "striking" releases, along with the additional 12 months that Ratti has aged the wine in bottle, and you have a Barolo that you'll absolutely want to stock up on.
What They're Saying: James Suckling was effusive in his praise, awarding 96 points and writing: a "beautiful Barolo with dark strawberry, blueberry, raspberry and stone,” “fine and chewy tannins that show tension and give focus,” and “great energy.”
Our Tasting Notes: What struck us most in our tastings was a wonderful purity, focus, and vitality: a clear expression of its Piedmontese terroir, unmuddied by heavy-handedness. The nose greets you with a vivid bouquet of dark berries and that characteristic Nebbiolo rose petal aroma, with, beneath these, subtle hints of truffle and damp earth. On the palate, balance is the watchword – the fruit is ripe and expressive, but never overpowering. The finish lingers, leaving you with whispers of red fruit, dried herbs, and that classic Barolo tar note. It's drinking beautifully now, especially with some air, but will also age gracefully.
The Story: Renato Ratti is almost universally regarded as the father of modern Barolo, a reputation derived less from the excellent wines he produced at his high-elevation estate in La Morra in the '60s, '70s, and '80s and more from his work with other estates – the knowledge and methods he generously shared, so that Barolo could grow and spread and become the world-class varietal he envisioned. Renato died in 1988, leaving his estate in the hands of his son Pietro, who didn't just build on his father's work, but, in many ways, perfected it, modifying and sharpening the winery's practices in both the vineyard and the cellar. Among the notable changes: the longer fermentations the estate is now known for, which bring more color, structure, and intensity to the wines.
The Specs: This Barolo Serradenari is crafted from 100% Nebbiolo grapes, sourced from the Serradenari vineyard in La Morra. The vines, averaging 25 years old, are planted in calcareous clay soils at an elevation of 420 meters above sea level. After careful hand-harvesting, the grapes undergo temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel tanks for about 20 days. The wine then ages for 24 months in large Slavonian oak casks, followed by an additional 12 months in bottle before release. This meticulous process results in a wine that beautifully expresses both its varietal character and its unique terroir.
Fun Fact: The Serradenari vineyard, at 420 meters above sea level, is the highest altitude Barolo cru. This elevation contributes to the wine's distinctive character, providing excellent exposure and allowing for a longer, more gradual ripening process that develops complex flavors while maintaining fresh acidity.
Our Guarantee: We always buy and source direct, so rest assured – your wines will arrive in your hands with pristine provenance. Secure yours today!
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Winter 2024 (Dec. 21st 2024-March 20th, 2025). With the supply chain issues that we are seeing globally, there may be some unforeseen delays which could affect the ETA. All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. Offer only valid in CA, FL, MA, NC, NJ, TX, VA. This offer is for ONE WEEK, or until sold out, and will expire on Wednesday, October 29th, 2024.