Garretti

Garretti is a compact Barolo MGA (Menzione Geografica Aggiuntiva) situated in the commune of Grinzane Cavour, one of the eleven communes within the Barolo DOCG. The vineyard covers just 5.8 acres, placing it among the smaller single-vineyard designations in the appellation. It sits at 240 meters above sea level on a south-facing slope, an orientation that maximizes solar exposure for Nebbiolo, a variety that demands warmth and an extended growing season to fully ripen. The continental climate of the Langhe brings warm summers, cold winters, and the characteristic autumn fog, known locally as nebbia, which gives the grape its name.

• Commune: Grinzane Cavour, Barolo DOCG
• Elevation: 240 meters above sea level
• Aspect: South-facing for maximum sun exposure
• Climate: Continental with characteristic autumn fog (nebbia)

The soils at Garretti combine alluvial deposits atop a base of calcareous clay, a composition common to the lower-lying sites within Grinzane Cavour. This clayey, calcareous structure retains moisture during dry periods while providing good drainage, and the mineral-rich bedrock contributes to the structure and aromatic complexity that defines Barolo. The vineyard's vines are approximately 70 years old, with the current plantings dating to replanting efforts in the 1950s. Old vines in Nebbiolo production are prized for their naturally low yields and concentrated fruit expression, qualities that translate directly into the wine's depth and longevity.

• Soil composition: Alluvial soil atop calcareous clay
• Vine age: Approximately 70 years old
• Original plantings date to the 1950s
• Old vines contribute low yields and fruit concentration

Garretti forms the lower section of the Campè vineyard property, which La Spinetta's Giorgio Rivetti acquired in 2000. The distinction between Garretti and the higher-elevation Campè cru is meaningful: Garretti's lower position and different soil profile produce a more approachable expression of Barolo compared to the more austere and structured Campè. La Spinetta, originally a Moscato d'Asti producer from Canelli, brought its reputation for precision and quality to the Barolo zone when it made this acquisition, and the Garretti bottling became a showcase for the estate's interpretation of Grinzane Cavour terroir. The property represents one of the clearest examples of how elevation and slope position within a single commune can yield meaningfully different wines.

• La Spinetta acquired the Campè property (including Garretti) in 2000
• Garretti is the lower section; Campè is the higher-elevation cru
• Lower elevation produces a more approachable, accessible style
• Giorgio Rivetti leads production at La Spinetta

Garretti produces full-bodied, powerful Barolo with a notably accessible personality relative to many of the appellation's more austere expressions. The wines show ripe red fruits, spices, and the classic Nebbiolo signatures of tar and roses alongside dried mushroom and hazelnut character. The south-facing slope and old vine concentration deliver depth and weight, while the alluvial component in the soil softens the tannin profile compared to the more purely calcareous sites in communes like La Morra or Castiglione Falletto. The result is a Barolo that rewards cellaring yet remains approachable earlier in its development than many peers.

• Style: Full-bodied, powerful, sophisticated with accessible personality
• Aromas: Ripe red fruits, spices, tar, roses, dried mushroom, hazelnut
• Alluvial soils contribute a softer tannin profile
• Suitable for both early drinking and extended cellaring