The ultra-traditional estate of Brezza has been tending vines in and around the commune of Barolo, from which the region's famous wines all take their name, since 1885. Indeed, along with their very old school cellar they also own and operate the Hotel Barolo, near the center of town. Their elegant, aromatic style which emphasizes balance over brute power fell out of fashion during the late ‘90s/early aughts obsession with high-octane richness, but in the last decade or so they’ve steadily returned to the limelight as beacons of purity and terroir transparency.

Now, with fourth-generation cousins Enzo and Giacomo at the helm, they are well-positioned to continue leading the pack in producing beautifully balanced, age-worthy Barolo. All farming is organic, long macerations are the standard, and aging is done only in large oak botti. The 2019s are the perfect calling card for this estate and should be considered a must-have for any Nebbiolo lover.

The Cannubi vineyard is ‘perhaps the most historic cru in all of Barolo,’ according to Kerin O’Keefe; it’s certainly the best known. Enzo Brezza is one of the producers (along with his cousin, Maria Teresa Mascarello), who have insisted that the Cannubi name be used only for the historic vineyard itself.