top of page

Ca’ del Baio

Piemont  //  Italy

Sustainable

2016 Winemaker of the Year - Giulio Grasso 

GAMBERO ROSSO
  • Instagram
Ca del baio vineyard
Ca del Baio Cellar

“The Ca’ del Baio line-up is extremely impressive and delightful. These are some of the best wines from Barbaresco.”

MONICA LARNER, WINE ADVOCATE

Back in 2016, fourth generation grape grower and first generation winemaker, Giulio Grasso of Ca' Del Baio, was recognised as Winemaker of the Year by Italy's famed Gambero Rosso.

 

Since then, responsibility for the estate has passed fully to his three daughters - Paola, Valentina and Federica - and their energy and vision is lifting the already exceptional quality of the wines even further with each vintage. Although already well established and proud of their deep roots, there is a sense of excitement, potential and vigour permeating the estate.

The family’s home and cantina are situated in Treiso. The cru Barbaresco vineyard holdings are divided among Treiso (Vallegrande and Marcarini) and Barbaresco (Asili and Pora). Of the 25 or so hectares owned by the family, about 17 are in Treiso and the rest are in Barbaresco. Calcareous Marl predominates the soils; in some expositions they appear almost as white as snow thanks to all the lime and calcareous material present in the soils.

Farming is sustainable, using the methods known as 'agricultura integrata' – farming that is integrated with the environment and uses only minimal treatments, and only when absolutely necessary. Alcoholic fermentation usually starts spontaneously with indigenous yeast, except in rare vintages where the risks are too great.

 

Macerations are in the longish range – 20+ days, depending on the wine and the vintage. Sulphite and sulphur dioxide additions are low – less than half the permitted amount. Elevage is primarily in botti grandi – large oval casks from Slavonian and Austrian oak. There is also some use of 500L tonneaux and, increasingly, concrete eggs.
 

Finally back in stock, we have just landed their latest releases, including three Barbaresco from the elegant and approachable 2020 vintage that perfectly demonstrate the estate's artful ability to balance grace and exuberance.
 

Featured Wines

Barbaresco Autinbej

2020

”Attractive aromas of citrus peel and red cherries with hints of lavender, crushed walnuts and dry earth. Medium-bodied. Very fine and polished with chalky textured tannins and juicy red berries in the middle. Fresh and balanced with a textural finish. Better after 2025."

94 points, James Suckling

Barbaresco Vallegrande Riserva

2018

”This is attractive and fragrant with notes of red and blue berries, dried violets, chocolate nibs and citrus. Some spices, too. Full-bodied with tense and compact tannins that make it meaty and viscous. Beautiful fruit aromas waft from the glass with spicy and floral undertones. Some stony minerality at the end. Better after 2025.”

95 points, James Suckling

Barbaresco Asili Riserva

2018

”Attractive aromas of spiced cherries and blueberry bush with citrus peel, dried violets and spices. Medium- to full-bodied with a firm grip of tannins that give structure and backbone. Fine and focused with crunchy acidity in the background. Crushed stone minerality at the end. Long finish. Drink after 2025.” 

95 points, James Suckling

bottom of page