From: Barolo, Langhe, Piedmont, Italy
Varietal: Nebbiolo
Critical Acclaim: “From the Luciano Sandrone late-release program, the 2018 Nebbiolo d'Alba Valmaggiore Sibi et Paucis has evidently experienced a very slow and soft evolution, because although there are some tertiary notes to admire, the wine feels and tastes much younger than its real years. It shows glossy elegance, tar, dried raspberry and soft pencil shaving. The 2018 vintage is subtle, but don't underestimate that power. Only 1,500 bottles were created. - ML” 94 Points, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate
“Underbrush, blue flower, leather and dark-spice aromas are front and center on this fragrant red. Elegant and focused, the savory, chiseled palate features juicy red cherry, spiced cranberry and star anise alongside polished tannins and bright acidity. Drink through 2026.” 92 Points, Kerin O’Keefe, Wine Enthusiast
“A library release from Sandrone, the 2018 Nebbiolo d'Alba Valmaggiore Sibi et Paucis shows lovely hints of maturity, yet also remains quite young. Crushed rose petal, dried red cherry, spice, leather and kirsch all grace the 2018. Its aromatics are already quite open, but there's lovely textural depth here. The 2018 is slender, but also very pretty.” - 92 Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media, November 2023
“Restrained spices, oak bark and licorice, with hints of dried cherries and flowers. Aromas are echoed on the palate. Tasty, savory, light and crunchy, with a juicy finish even if it’s a bit brief. Drink now.” 91 Points, James Suckling
About: Luciano Sandrone S.S.A. is based in the town of Barolo, right in the middle of Piedmont’s Langhe region.T his is where Luciano Sandrone got his start, not with family land or long-established ties, but as a former cellar hand who gradually carved out his place through careful vineyard work and a quiet, long-term approach to Nebbiolo.
The son of a local carpenter, Luciano Sandrone began studying viticulture in his early teens and spent years working in other people’s cellars to support his dream. In the late 1970s, he depleted his savings to buy a small plot of Nebbiolo vines in Cannubi Boschis.