Fratelli Alessandria Barolo Gramolere 2017

95 points Monica Larner (Wine Advocate): “[$95 list] With some 7,000 bottles released, the Fratelli Alessandria 2017 Barolo Gramolere gives us a taste of fruit from Monforte d’Alba, as opposed to Verduno, where this winery is based. The Nebbiolo from this further-flung village shows deep power and equal grace, and you feel the contrast in this warm-vintage wine. This Barolo sits firmly on the palate with dark shades of cherry, blackcurrant and wild plum. These fruit tones cede to iron ore, rusty nail and dark licorice. This wine shows power and almost sanguine or earthy intensity. The wine will hit the market in September 2021. Drink: 2024-2040. (Jun 2021)”

95 points Aldo Fiordelli (Decanter): “Gramolere is close to Bussia but separated from it by a deep valley, and the soil originates from a different geology: we find Sant’Agata Fossili sandy marls in Gramolere and Diano d’Alba sandstone at the top of Bussia (Pianpolvere). If you prefer fruit-driven wines, this wine is worth a try. Gramolere is known to be restrained and austere, but here the nose is dominated by rhubarb root, rosehip, tar, and earthy clay minerality. Candied cherry and pomegranate juice flavours provide fruit concentration, while the tight-knit structure showcases chewy acidity and austere yet ripe tannins on the mid-palate, followed by a graceful watermelon finish. A great wine indeed. Drinking Window: 2022-2040. (Mar 2021)”

95 points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): “[$95 list] The 2017 Barolo Gramolere is a powerful, tightly wound wine full of Monforte tension. Readers will have to be patient. Dark-fleshed fruit, spice, menthol, licorice and sage add layers of aromatic intrigue to this firm, hulky Barolo. The 2017 takes all the Gramolere signatures and turns up the volume. Drink: 2025-2042. (Feb 2021)”

93 points James Suckling: “Some pleasant cherry and raspberry character here with hints of roses. Medium-to full-bodied with firm, silky tannins and relaxed fruit flavors, turning more savory through the long finish. Shows promise. The center palate should fill out a bit, as the tannins subside. Give it time. Try in 2024. (7/2/21)”