Poderi Aldo Conterno Barolo Bussia 2021

Poderi Aldo Conterno Barolo Bussia 2021 is an exceptional, highly-rated wine that showcases the precision and energy of the outstanding 2021 vintage in Piedmont. This is Poderi Aldo Conterno's classic Barolo, blended from several parcels across the Bussia cru in Monforte d'Alba. Expect a full-bodied Nebbiolo with dried cherry, rose and licorice, firm tannins and real ageing potential. It was rated 95 POINTS by both James Suckling and Wine Spectator.

In the glass it shows citrus peel, sweet violet and a whisper of camphor, with dark spice and gravel underneath, all carried on a structured, grainy frame.

This wine would pair well with slow-braised beef or a good truffle dish, and it's one to tuck away in the cellar rather than open tonight.

What it tastes like

The nose leads with leather, incense and a touch of tobacco over dark fruit. The palate is full-bodied, with chalky, grainy tannins and bright, lively acidity, finishing long on cherry stones. It's built for the cellar.

Style at a glance

• Body: Full
• Sweetness: Dry
• Acidity: High
• Tannin: Firm and grainy
• Oak: Aged in large Slavonian oak casks

Style: Structured, age-worthy Barolo.

Food to enjoy this with

• Slow-braised beef cheek
• Fresh truffle shaved over tajarin
• Aged Parmigiano Reggiano
• Venison with a rich jus
• Porcini risotto
• Dark chocolate with hazelnut, an unexpected match where the wine's firm tannins hold their own against the sweetness

Who makes it

Poderi Aldo Conterno is one of the benchmark names of Monforte d'Alba, with a reputation built on the Bussia cru.

Barolo Bussia is blended from Nebbiolo grown across several parcels within Bussia, from vines at least 15 to 20 years old, older than the estate uses for Il Favot.

For the 2021 vintage, the grapes were hand-picked with selection in the vineyard in mid-October, then macerated on skins for 20 to 30 days in stainless steel at temperatures up to 32 degrees, before the wine was decanted several times and moved into large oak casks to age.

About the vintage

2021 is regarded as a modern benchmark vintage for Barolo. Winter brought heavy snow, and a frost in early April caused some localised damage, but a hot, dry summer followed and the harvest ran late, into early October.

Decanter rated it a five-star vintage overall, and named the Bussia cru in Monforte d'Alba, where this wine is grown, as one of the standout performers of the year.

Critic scores and ratings

• 95 POINTS – James Suckling – James Suckling, April 2025
• 95 POINTS – Wine Spectator – Wine Spectator, April 2026
• 92 POINTS – Antonio Galloni – Vinous, January 2026

Technical details

Where to buy

The Poderi Aldo Conterno Barolo Bussia 2021 is available online at thewineryonline.co.nz for delivery within New Zealand. You can also buy it at our Queenstown and Arrowtown wine stores, alongside a large range of New Zealand and international wine. Online and in both stores you can select a mixed case from a large range of wines.

Questions we are often asked

What grape is Poderi Aldo Conterno Barolo Bussia 2021 made from?

It's 100% Nebbiolo, blended from several parcels within the Bussia cru in Monforte d'Alba, Piedmont.

Is 2021 a good vintage for Barolo?

Yes, 2021 is regarded as a modern benchmark vintage in Barolo, with Decanter rating it five stars and singling out the Bussia cru as one of the year's standout performers.

What food goes well with this wine?

Rich, savoury dishes like slow-braised beef, truffle pasta or aged Parmigiano suit its firm tannins and structure.

Has this wine won any awards or high scores?

Yes, it was rated 95 POINTS by James Suckling, 95 POINTS by Wine Spectator and 92 POINTS by Vinous.

How long should I cellar this wine?

It's built for the long haul. Critics note its firm, dry tannins need time, so it rewards several years in the cellar before opening.

Where can I buy Poderi Aldo Conterno Barolo Bussia 2021?

The Winery sells Poderi Aldo Conterno Barolo Bussia 2021 online at thewineryonline.co.nz for delivery within New Zealand. You can also buy it in our Queenstown and Arrowtown wine stores.