Though Cesare Bussolo’s star is rising, you may not yet have heard of him. Barolo collectors will, though, almost certainly have heard of his mentor and sometimes partner, Piemonte legend Roberto Voerzio, who Cesare has worked with since 2007. 

Cesare, born and raised in La Morra and a graduate of the Alba Wine School, bought his own land in 2009 and leases some of Voerzio’s as well. He farms similarly to his mentor, with high density plantings, extremely low yields, and organic practices. His wine is produced in Roberto’s cellar, with minimal intervention.

Santa Lucia is the vineyard Cesare bought in 2009, planted with old barbera vines. In 2010, he replanted the vineyard, still with barbera but at much higher density. After fermenting in stainless steel, it spends 12 months in oak barrels, only 12% of which are new. Even in its youth, the 2021 shows striking depth, with notes of tart cherry, damson plum, worn-in saddle leather, brewed Assam tea leaves, and red currant compote. On the palate, the fruit becomes more vivid, framed by elegant tannin and crisp acidity. Beautiful now, though surely more depth to be uncovered in the cellar.