Beautifully etched and focused, the Margherita Otto 2021 Barolo stands out in this mini vertical of three vintages, thanks to its linear delivery, bright fruit and finely etched mineral definition. Made with a blend of fruit from four sites, the wine offers a complete expression of Nebbiolo with remarkable aromatic purity, elegant structure and impressive mid-palate length. It shows a welcome sense of restraint, yet there is no shortage of intensity. I especially admire the dimension and tension that define the mouthfeel, and this bottle has a long runway for future aging. It was fermented in concrete with 40 days of skin contact before 30 months in large botti. Some 12,000 bottles were produced.

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