Nicknamed the Barolo of Barbaresco, the vineyards of Montestefano are known for producing rich, powerful Nebbiolo. Situated just a few hundred metres south of the equally-famous Montefico vineyard, Montestefano’s southern exposure provide sunlight for the grapes to ripen, while the steep calcareous limestone slopes drain well. These conditions ensure good harvests even in wet vintages. Sheltered from the northern winds, Montestefano’s microclimate is relatively warm, so its Nebbiolo develops a ripe, full profile.

The Montestefano Riserva shows how great terroir and winemaking can come together to allow Nebbiolo to express its potential in the glass. Hand-picked grapes were macerated for 28 days, then aged in large oak botti for 36 months. The wine spent a further 12 months in bottle where it developed intense flavours of red fruit, spice, leather, tobacco, and dried rose. It’s a full-bodied wine with silky tannins and a long finish.

“The 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano is one of the most elegant, polished wines in this range. Bright red-toned fruit, blood orange, spice, mint and cedar are beautifully lifted. The tannins are remarkably polished for a young, recently bottled Riserva. I admire its poise and elegance. This is an especially refined edition of the Montestefano. In 2020, the mix of vineyards is a bit younger than in the past, as one of the blocks of older vineyards was replanted and not used. If I could have only one of the Riservas in 2020, this would be it!”
97 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media, September 2024

“Normally, Produttori del Barbaresco President Aldo Vacca puts Montefico, Rabajà, Muncagota and Montestefano at the end of his flight of Riservas. But in this year’s presentation, he put the 2020 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano fourth to last instead of last. This wine is usually the darkest and the most austere in the series. However, the 2020 does not live up to its usual flavor profile. The aromas are quite ripe, even overripe, with prune and raisin. The tannins are soft, leading to a succulent and chewy mouthfeel. My recommendation is to give this wine a shorter drinking window.”
93 points, Monica Larner, Wine Advocate, January 2025