Parussi

Parussi is a southwest-facing MGA in Castiglione Falletto, at 280–350 metres on Tortonian Sant’Agata Fossili marls — the calcareous formation that the regional geological map places under this part of the Castiglione hill, rather than the Helvetian sandstones of Serralunga. The eponymous Parussi estate has made this vineyard a reference for what these marls achieve in this location: taut, mineral, slow to open, and built for the long haul.

The wines carry an intense concentration of dark cherry, iron, liquorice, and dried herb, framed by firm tannins that require patience to soften and integrate. Parussi Barolo rewards extended aging — ten to twenty years is not unreasonable for the finest vintages — emerging with layers of leather, tobacco, truffle, and mineral earth that mark the great traditional Barolo style. The calcareous marls, poor in nutrients, stress the Nebbiolo vines and concentrate the fruit, producing wines that are compact and somewhat severe in youth but magnificent in maturity. For collectors seeking Castiglione Falletto Barolo with the structure and longevity of Serralunga combined with the commune’s characteristic aromatic precision, Parussi is among the most rewarding destinations in the MGA portfolio.