As we first reported 2 years ago, we were astounded by the superlative wines being made at Alessandria – genuinely taken aback by the joyous quality of these wines, when we first tasted them. The style brings to mind top-notch Grand Cru Burgundy from Chambolle Musigny, showing abundant perfume, creamy, blue-tinged fruit and striking terroir notes. Depth is allied to balance, poise with complexity for their 2016’s which show beautiful succulence. As Antonio Galloni writes ‘Vittore Alessandria has a stunning set of 2016s on his hands. The wines are positively brilliant.’

In recent years, the sleepy Barolo village of Verduno has become a magnet for Nebbiolo aficionados after being regarded once as a marginal Barolo commune compared to the big three: Serralunga d’Alba, Castiglione Falletto and Barolo. Perhaps it’s thanks to Verduno’s small size, prettiness and the charmingly soft, perfumed, Pinot-esque Barolos that has seen it now become something of a ‘mecca’. The Alessandria family, all strands of it, is very much the family of the village, in the same way ‘Conterno’ is to Monforte. Vittore, who hosted us warmly last summer, is part of the 5th generation of the family and a purposeful man who knows to let the wines do the talking. Alessandria is very much a family affair, however, including uncle Ale, father Gian-Battista as well as mother Flavia. The family began making prized wine back in the 18th century, but it’s this current team that has been turning heads. Much credit goes to Ale who tends the 14ha of vines, often on his Lamborghini caterpillar tractor, whilst Vittore is more present in the cellar. It was clear that they had been investing in great, high quality botti. “Paying more attention” says Vittore, referring to all-round improvements. The wines are no longer overlooked. In contrast, they are now clearly aiming for the stars.