$195.00
Giovanni Canonica’s Barolo Paiagallo comes from a small, distinctive vineyard on the hillside above the village of Barolo, where calcareous marl and clay soils give the Nebbiolo a strong sense of place. Canonica is one of the region’s most traditional growers, working organically without certification and favouring a hands-off approach in the cellar. The wine is fermented spontaneously with indigenous yeasts, undergoes an extended maceration of around 30–40 days, and is aged in large Slavonian oak casks and concrete before being bottled unfined and unfiltered, with minimal sulphur.
The 2022 Paiagallo is a compelling expression of Canonica’s singular style, combining vivid red fruit and floral perfume with a distinctly earthy, savoury character. Cherry and wild red berries lead, followed by dried rose, orange peel, earthy spice and hints of forest floor. There is an appealing energy to the palate, with bright acidity and a fine mineral thread carrying the fruit, while firm, persistent tannins provide structure and longevity.
What makes this wine so distinctive is the balance between its aromatic delicacy and its more rustic, almost feral character. There is no overt oak or unnecessary polish, just Nebbiolo expressed with real individuality and transparency. Already expressive, it nevertheless has plenty of room to develop, with time in the cellar likely to bring greater aromatic complexity and depth. A wonderfully individual Barolo that speaks clearly of both its vineyard and its producer.
3 in stock