Barolo Linea 1878 2020 | Collina San Ponzio

Wine Identification
The Barolo Linea 1878 is a red wine produced by Collina San Ponzio, a historic winery managed by the Balocco family. This specific bottling carries the vintage designation of 2020. The wine holds the DOCG appellation of Barolo, situated within the Piedmont region of Italy.

Origin and Terroir
The grapes are sourced from the Cru Fossati vineyard in La Morra, one of the five major communes of the Barolo zone. The vineyard is located at an altitude between 380 and 400 meters above sea level, featuring a southeast exposure that influences ripening patterns. The soil composition is characterized by calcareous-argillaceous earth mixed with fossilized sand, conditions typically associated with structure and aromatic complexity in Nebbiolo.

Winemaking and Style
This wine is crafted from 100% Nebbiolo grapes. The winemaking approach follows a "neoclassical Piedmontese" style, emphasizing traditional methods over modern innovation. The defining characteristic of its production is the ageing process: the wine matures in large Slavonian oak casks (botti grandi). This choice of vessel minimizes oxidative impact and imparts minimal wood flavor, allowing the primary fruit characteristics and terroir expression to remain prominent without the interference of new oak toastiness.

Tasting Profile
Based on the varietal (Nebbiolo), appellation (Barolo), and winemaking technique (large Slavonian casks), the wine is expected to exhibit the classic structural elements of Langhe Nebbiolo: firm tannins and high acidity. The calcareous-clay soils likely contribute to a profile with notes of red fruits, dried roses, tar, and earthy undertones. The use of large, neutral oak casks suggests a wine that is elegant and focused on purity rather than power or heavy wood influence.

Overall Character
The Barolo Linea 1878 takes its name from 1878, the year the Balocco family began making Barolo. By combining the prestigious Cru Fossati site with large-format oak ageing, the wine aims to deliver a classic expression of La Morra Barolo, highlighting elegance and terroir transparency over oaky intensity.