Aldo Conterno Barolo Granbussia 2000 5 lit.

The "Grand Bus" in a Giant Format – A Monument to Monforte

The Vibe

If the standard bottle of Granbussia is a masterpiece, a 5-liter Jeroboam (sometimes referred to in Italy as a Bottiglione) is basically a national monument. Granbussia is only made in the best years, and 2000 was a legendary, sun-drenched vintage that produced wines of "full, supple power."

What makes Granbussia special is that it isn't just from one vineyard; it is a blend of Aldo Conterno’s three greatest crus: 70% Romirasco, 15% Cicala, and 15% Colonnello. The wine is aged for nearly a decade before it even leaves the cellar. In a 5-liter format, the wine ages much slower than in a standard bottle, meaning this 2000 vintage is likely just hitting its "majestic mid-life" right now in 2026.

The Nose

Because this is a massive bottle, the aromatics stay "younger" for longer. It opens with an intense perfume of dried roses, tar, and black truffles. As it sits in a decanter (which you will definitely need), it reveals layers of sandalwood, licorice, and balsamic herbs like eucalyptus and thyme. It smells like a classic, old-school Barolo that has been polished to a high-gloss French finish.

The Taste

On the palate, the 2000 is full-bodied and velvety. The "masculine" power of Monforte d’Alba is here, but the tannins have melted into a silky, seductive texture over the last 26 years. You get a core of sweet cherry and plum fruit wrapped in leather, tobacco, and spice. The finish is famously long—it’s the kind of wine where you can still taste the "salty" limestone minerality minutes after your last sip.

Product Specs

How to Handle a 5L Bottle:

• The Logistics: You are going to need a friend (or a specialized cradle) to pour this. It weighs about 8–10kg when full.

• The Aeration: A wine this size needs a lot of air. Decant it at least 3 to 4 hours before serving. Since it’s 5 liters, you’ll likely need 4 or 5 standard-sized decanters to hold it all.

• The Glassware: Use the largest "Burgundy" or "Barolo" bowls you have. The surface area is key to waking up those 26-year-old aromas.

Best Paired With:

• The Feast: This bottle is built for a celebration. Pair it with a whole roasted beef tenderloin or a traditional Brasato al Barolo (beef braised in wine).

• The Season: Anything with white truffles or wild porcini mushrooms.