Cannubi Valletta

Cannubi Valletta sits at the southern end of the historic Cannubi hill in the commune of Barolo, bordering Via Alba to the south. At 280 meters elevation and oriented toward the south-southeast, the vineyard receives strong sun exposure throughout the growing season. The site covers a compact 6.2 hectares, making it one of the smaller MGAs in the Barolo denomination. Surrounding hills provide natural protection from cold winds and weather extremes, creating a sheltered microclimate that supports consistent ripening of Nebbiolo.

• Located at the southern boundary of the Cannubi hill complex
• Borders Via Alba, the main road connecting Barolo and Alba
• 280 meters elevation with south-southeast aspect
• Surrounding topography shields the site from cold wind exposure

The soils of Cannubi Valletta are a layered mix of sand, silt, and clay combined with limestone and marl. Both Tortonian and Helvetian geological deposits are present, with calcareous clay marls and Fossil Marls of Sant'Agata forming the primary substrate. This combination of soil types is characteristic of the broader Cannubi hill and contributes to wines that balance structure with finesse. The microclimate is notably sheltered, with optimal sun exposure and cool conditions that preserve aromatic complexity in the Nebbiolo grape.

• Tortonian and Helvetian soils are both represented within the site
• Fossil Marls of Sant'Agata contribute to the calcareous clay marl character
• Sandy components promote drainage and support aromatic development
• Sheltered microclimate delivers consistent ripening with freshness retained

Cannubi Valletta was officially recognized as one of five Cannubi sub-zones during the early 2000s zoning process led by the Consorzio di Tutela Barolo Barbaresco Alba Langhe e Dogliani. The designation became the subject of legal dispute, with producers and stakeholders challenging whether sub-zones could independently carry the Cannubi name. A 2013 tribunal ruling resolved the matter, permitting wines from Cannubi Valletta and the other sub-zones to be labeled either as 'Cannubi' alone or with the full sub-zone designation. This ruling has significant commercial implications, as the Cannubi name carries considerable prestige in the international market.

• One of five officially defined Cannubi sub-zones recognized in the early 2000s
• The MGA designation was contested in legal proceedings before the 2013 ruling
• Producers may label wines as 'Cannubi' or 'Cannubi Valletta' following the tribunal decision
• The ruling applies equally to all five Cannubi sub-zones

Cannubi Valletta is planted exclusively to Nebbiolo and produces Barolo DOCG wines described as elegant, balanced, and complex with silky tannins. The wines reflect both the mixed soil character of the site and the sheltered microclimate. Notable producers working with fruit from Cannubi Valletta include Marchesi di Barolo, Ceretto, and Chiara Boschis, all of whom have established reputations across the broader Cannubi and Barolo landscapes.

• Sole grape variety: Nebbiolo, as required for Barolo DOCG
• Wine profile: elegant with silky tannins, balanced structure, aromatic complexity
• Marchesi di Barolo, Ceretto, and Chiara Boschis are key producers
• Wines may be released under the 'Cannubi' label or the full Cannubi Valletta MGA name