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Italy • Piedmont • Monforte d’Alba • Barolo • Nebbiolo • Organic Farming
Azienda Agricola Conterno-Fantino – Modern precision at the heart of the great Langhe terroirs
A contemporary, elegant and sustainable interpretation of Nebbiolo from Monforte d’Alba
Founded in 1982 in Monforte d’Alba by Claudio Conterno (vigneron) and Guido Fantino (oenologist), Conterno-Fantino has become one of the leading modern producers of Barolo. Their philosophy combines traditional know-how, technical mastery and a forward-thinking commitment to sustainability, today strengthened by the new generation — Monica Conterno and Fabio Fantino.
The wines are prized for their remarkable aromatic purity, silky and precise tannins, and their ability to express with clarity the dramatic terroirs of Monforte d’Alba.
Terroirs & philosophy – The strength of Monforte’s crus
The estate covers 27 hectares exclusively in Monforte d’Alba, within some of the most prestigious crus of the Langhe:
- Ginestra – depth, mineral tension, laser-like precision.
- Mosconi – power, firm structure, aromatic richness.
- Castelletto (Vigna Pressenda) – energy, spice, complexity.
- Bussia – nobility, amplitude, long-lined architecture.
These soils of marl, clay, limestone and sand — rich in marine fossils — give the wines a signature combining controlled power, tension, verticality and aromatic finesse.
Since 2012, the estate has been farmed organically, with an unusually strong commitment for the region: biodiversity, living soils, water management, reduced carbon footprint, and highly precise parcel-based viticulture. A true pioneer of sustainable Barolo.
Viticulture & winemaking – Transparency, precision, mastery
Harvesting is entirely manual, followed by meticulous sorting. In the cellar, the goal is to preserve the integrity of Nebbiolo:
- fermentation in stainless steel or wood,
- indigenous yeasts,
- long but gentle macerations, non-extractive,
- careful temperature management,
- aging in French barriques — mostly used — alongside traditional large botti.
The estate seeks a style that is elegant, precise, pure, avoiding heaviness and overt oakiness.
Wine style
Conterno-Fantino wines are defined by:
- exceptional aromatic purity,
- fine, polished, elegant tannins,
- a vibrant acidic backbone,
- a marked mineral structure,
- a natural balance between density and freshness,
- excellent ageing potential — 15 to 30 years for the Barolo.
A vertical, luminous and energetic style — the hallmark of Monforte d’Alba.
Key cuvées
| Cuvée | Description |
|---|---|
| Barolo Ginestra “Vigna del Gris” | Pure, linear, floral; lifted minerality, fine tannins, vibrant finish. |
| Barolo Mosconi | Darker, more powerful profile: natural amplitude, deep structure, superb longevity. |
| Barolo Castelletto “Vigna Pressenda” | Vertical, spicy, refined; remarkable tension and precise architecture. |
| Barolo Bussia | Aromatic complexity, noble breadth, classical Monforte stature. |
| Barbera d’Alba “Vignota” | Juicy, energetic, bright-fruited; a perfectly crafted and highly drinkable Barbera. |
| Langhe Nebbiolo | Floral purity, immediate finesse, airy balance. A superb introduction to the Conterno-Fantino style. |
Conclusion
Conterno-Fantino achieves what few producers manage: combining the natural power of Nebbiolo from Monforte with exceptional textural finesse and modern precision. Energetic, elegant and deeply rooted in its terroir, the estate represents one of the most accomplished interpretations of contemporary Barolo.
