Founded in 1928 on a hill named Maiolica, the winery is run by Beppe Accomo, the fifth generation of his family to farm in these hills. Beppe had always dreamed of making a Barolo wine, and in 2012, after 25+ years of searching, Beppe and his partner, Claudia, were able to purchase a tiny 0.5-hectare vineyard of Nebbiolo da Barolo in Diano d’Alba. They named the wine Contadin, or peasant: The perfect name for a Barolo from a traditional farming family that exudes such rustic charm.

When I tasted the wine, I knew I had unearthed a Barolo gem. The Contadin shows an alluring mid-ruby color with brilliant tawny rim. Soaring aromas of strawberry, balsam, sandalwood, black cherry and anise explode from the glass. The palate is tightly wound, full-bodied and powerful with impressive tannins and energetic acidity. Concentrated, intensely structured with great persistence and length, this Barolo is traditional in the best sense of the word. You can drink now after decanting (give it an hour for best results), though this will age beautifully over the next 10+ years.