Luciano Sandrone Barolo Le Vigne 2020

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1978 by Luciano Sandrone in Barolo, Piedmont, Italy, the Sandrone winery has become synonymous with excellence in winemaking. Luciano’s vision was to craft wines that marry traditional practices with modern techniques. Over the decades, the estate has garnered acclaim for its meticulous attention to detail and commitment to expressing the unique terroir of the Langhe region. The winery emphasizes low yields, sustainable viticulture, and minimal intervention in the cellar, resulting in wines that are both expressive and refined.

Producer and Winemaker

Luciano Sandrone, a self-taught winemaker, quickly gained recognition for his exceptional Barolo wines. Today, the winery is managed by his daughter, Barbara, and brother, Luca, who continue Luciano’s legacy with the same dedication and passion. Their collaborative approach ensures that each wine reflects the family’s commitment to quality and the distinct characteristics of their vineyards.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The 2020 Barolo Le Vigne is a blend of fruit from several esteemed vineyards: Baudana in Serralunga d’Alba, Villero in Castiglione Falletto, Vignane in Barolo, Merli in Novello, and, starting with the 2019 vintage, Le Coste di Monforte. These sites are characterized by calcareous clay soils and benefit from a continental climate with significant diurnal temperature variations. Such conditions contribute to the development of Nebbiolo grapes with vibrant acidity, deep color, and complex aromatic profiles.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes are hand-harvested and undergo spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts in open-top wooden vats. The wine is then aged for 24 months in 500-liter French oak tonneaux, followed by 12 months in large French oak casks. After barrel aging, the wine is bottle-aged for an additional 36 months before release. This extended aging process allows the wine to develop complexity and balance.

Tasting Notes

The 2020 Barolo Le Vigne presents a lifted nose of black fruits, roses, and violets, with accents of cola nut and graphite. On the palate, flavors of black and red fruits predominate, with lovely ripe tannins and a generous, high-toned finish. The wine exhibits brilliant aromatic intensity and depth, with notes of crushed rose petal, mint, blood orange, spice, lavender, and pomegranate. It has an open-knit texture with sun-drenched aromas, including black cherry, blackcurrant, forest floor, and wild mushroom. With time in the glass, it reveals floral definition, grilled tarragon herb, and a note of wheat biscuit. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This Barolo pairs excellently with a variety of dishes, including:

• Braised beef short ribs

• Wild mushroom risotto

• Roasted lamb with rosemary

• Aged cheeses such as Parmigiano-Reggiano

Its vibrant acidity and complex flavors complement both hearty and savory dishes.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its nuances, decant the wine for 1 to 2 hours before serving. Serve at a temperature of 18–20°C (64–68°F) in large, tulip-shaped glasses to allow the aromas to fully develop. This approach enhances the wine’s expressive bouquet and balanced palate.

Storage and Aging Potential

While the 2020 Barolo Le Vigne is approachable now, it possesses the structure and acidity to age gracefully for 20 to 30 years. Proper cellaring conditions—cool temperatures, consistent humidity, and minimal light exposure—will allow the wine to develop additional complexity and depth over time.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• 100% Nebbiolo

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

• 14.5%

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 96/100

• Wine Spectator: 95/100

• Wine Advocate: 95/100

• Robert Parker: 95/100

• James Suckling: 96/100

• Vinous: 94/100

• Jeb Dunnuck: 94/100