Margherita Otto Barolo DOCG 2022
Margherita Otto Barolo DOCG 2022
Reviewed by Monica Larner
The latest release from Margherita Otto is the 2022 Barolo, made according to the traditional blending method in which fruit from four vineyard sites is assembled into one. The wine shows bright primary intensity that underscores both its youth and the plum-rich, generous character of this warm vintage. That richness lends immediate appeal, with a supple texture that draws you in from the first sip. The bouquet is redolent of dark cherry, plum and a touch of cinnamon, while the tannins are beautifully managed, avoiding the pinch of astringency that often marks the vintage. Fermented in concrete with 49 days of skin contact and aged for 30 months in large botti, this is a 12,000-bottle release. Published: Jul 23, 2026
Founded by Alan Manley in Monforte d'Alba, Margherita Otto embraces the traditional "assemblaggio" philosophy of Barolo, blending fruit from multiple vineyard sites before fermentation rather than vinifying each parcel separately. Fermented in concrete with long post-fermentation macerations and aged in large botti, the wines are rooted in classic Langhe traditions while expressing precision and transparency. Manley farms with a low-impact philosophy focused on the long-term health of his vineyards, saying he wants to do "what is necessary for the health and longevity of my plants and co-workers and not more." Published: Jul 23, 2026
The 2022 Barolo is gorgeous. Orange peel, white pepper, chocolate, rose petal, road tar, sage and sweet pipe tobacco all waft from the glass. This is as classic as it gets. As always, Alan Manley made a Barolo that is open-knit and ready to drink on release. The 2022 has no hard edges and fine balance, to boot. It's one of the best wines I have tasted here. Sublime. - By Antonio Galloni, January 2026
Margherita Otto Barolo is made as a traditional assemblaggio Barolo.
Vineyard Sites:
Monforte, in Localita Ginestra
Castiglione Falletto, in the Pernanno MGA
Barolo, in the Vignane and Coste di Rose MGAs
Serralunga, at the edge of the Vingarionda MGA
Viticulture and winemaking are conventional and traditional.
Vineyard sites were in Monforte d’Alba, Castiglione Falletto and Serralunga d’Alba for the first three vintages (2015-2017). A partial parcel in the Vignane MGA of Barolo was added for the 2018 vintage; the whole parcel is under rental since 2019. A second parcel in Barolo township was added for 2020. The sites in the communes of Monforte, Castiglione and Barolo are estate-farmed, the Serralunga site provides purchased fruit from a grower family who are good friends.
