Questo vino
Vineyard and terroir
Bricco delle Viole is a historic Barolo cru and the highest MGA in the commune, occupying its western side at 400–480 metres above sea level, close to the Alps. Its south-facing position takes its name from the violets that flower early there. Rising above the fog, the vineyard receives both the first light of dawn and the final light of sunset. Gentle luminosity, substantial diurnal temperature variation and vines planted in 1931, 1949 and 1968 shape a Barolo of depth and complexity, with vibrant aromas, finely etched tannins and mineral finesse.
Aldo Vaira embraced organic farming in 1971. The vineyard has maintained spontaneous grass cover for approximately 50 years, improving subsurface aeration and protection against erosion. Viticulture involves extensive manual work, alongside monitoring and enrichment of plant and animal biodiversity throughout the estate’s vineyards, fields and woodland. The estate vineyards are certified sustainable and organic.
Grapes
100% Nebbiolo.
Vinification
For the 2022 vintage, the individual parcels were harvested between 5 and 12 October. Selection was performed manually three times: first in the vineyard, then on a sorting table in the cellar, and finally berry by berry after destemming.
Vinification took place in tapered vats with gentle pump-overs and punch-downs. A long, 49-day maceration followed with a partially submerged cap. Malolactic fermentation was completed in stainless steel during the spring.
Ageing
The wine matured for 22 months in large Slavonian oak casks, mainly of 25 and 50 hectolitres. It was bottled on 20 May 2025.
Technical data
- Appellation: Barolo DOCG
- Vineyard: Bricco delle Viole MGA, commune of Barolo
- Altitude: 400–480 m
- Grape variety: 100% Nebbiolo
- Formats: 750 ml and 1.5 L
Tasting profile
The 2022 has a vibrant, intense garnet-red colour. Its deep, noble and compelling nose layers violets, macerated dog roses and ripe strawberries with red and black cherries, blueberry, mint, white truffle, star anise and wild fennel. As the bouquet develops, ethereal notes give way to volcanic stone and a suggestion of tamarind.
The palate combines monumental scale with exceptional elegance. Violet and cherry intensity meets a dark mineral texture, touches of orange and fennel, and a delicate saline note. Refined tannins emerge and recede like the threads of a tapestry. The finish is exceptionally long and graceful.
Vintage notes
The 2022 season began with dry conditions and high daytime temperatures. Mountain precipitation partially replenished water reserves in March, and budbreak began on 25 March. Two months of rain followed, accompanied by severe hailstorms that spared the estate’s vineyards. After regular flowering, heat settled in during June and continued throughout the summer. Cooler September temperatures created the diurnal range needed for Nebbiolo to ripen. Across the estate, harvest ran from 16 August to 14 October. Yields were limited, while the resulting wines were vibrant and juicy, with notable aromatic intensity.
Label / history
Bricco delle Viole is described by Aldo Vaira as the vineyard that taught the family patience and naturally guided the estate’s style toward grace and elegance.
