Aldo Conterno IlFavot 2021

The "Training Wheels" for Barolo – Sophistication with a Shortcut

The Vibe

If you want the soul of Aldo Conterno without the ten-year wait or the three-figure price tag, Il Favot is the answer. It is essentially a "Baby Barolo" in everything but name. The grapes come from the same legendary Bussia vineyards as the top-tier Barolos, but they are harvested from the "younger" vines (those under 15 years old). While the Barolos are aged in massive traditional casks, Il Favot is the family's "modern" project, designed to be luscious, fragrant, and ready to party right now.

The Nose

The 2021 vintage is a standout for its "high-definition" aromatics. It hits you with a massive floral perfume—think orange blossoms and fresh red roses—layered over a basket of bright red cherries and raspberries. Because it is aged in 100% new French oak barriques (the same ones that previously held the Bussiador Chardonnay), you get sophisticated hints of cocoa powder, vanilla, and sweet tobacco smoke. It smells like a luxury spa located in the middle of a fruit orchard.

The Taste

On the palate, Il Favot is all about "The Big Softie" energy. Most Nebbiolo is famous for "sandpaper" tannins that dry out your mouth, but for this wine, they limit skin contact to just 6–8 days. The result? A wine that is creamy, supple, and surprisingly soft. You will taste juicy plum and cranberry, followed by a zesty, orange-peel acidity that keeps it fresh. The finish is polished and long, with a lingering note of anise and cedar.

Product Specs

Best Paired With:

• The "Sunday Sauce": Lasagna, spaghetti bolognese, or any rich ragù.

• The Grill: A perfectly seared ribeye or lamb chops with rosemary.

• The Contrast: Surprisingly good with roasted chicken, as the oak notes act as a bridge to the charred skin.

Pro Tip

Unlike the Granbussia, you do not need to wait decades for this. In 2026, the 2021 Il Favot is in its "prime youth." It is expressive and beautiful right out of the bottle, though a quick 30-minute decant will help those cocoa and espresso notes pop. Serve at 16–18°C.