Cordero di Montezemolo

Cordero di Montezemolo is one of the most historic and prestigious wineries in Piedmont. The family-run estate is based in La Morra, in the heart of the Barolo region. Its history dates back to 1340, when the Falletti family took possession of the historic hill of Monfalletto. The estate remained in the hands of the noble Falletti family for over 600 years before it passed to the Cordero di Montezemolo family, who have been running it ever since, now in the 19th generation. Today, the winery is managed by Giovanni Cordero di Montezemolo together with his children Elena and Alberto .

Location and Vineyards

The estate now comprises around 28 to 38 hectares of vineyards, spread across various sites. At its heart lies the historic Monfalletto estate, whose vineyards stretch around the hilltop property . The central location, the orientation of the vineyards and the mineral-rich marl soils make Monfalletto one of the most privileged Barolo crus in the entire region. This is complemented by two hectares in the Villero cru in Castiglione-Falletto, which form the basis for the ‘Enrico VI’ Barolo , as well as further vineyards in the Roero area.

Viticulture and Philosophy

For many years ,the estate has been committed to sustainable, nature-oriented viticulture and was one of the first in Barolo to consistently switch to organic practices. At the heart of its philosophy is the production of long-lived, characterful wines that authentically reflect the terroir.

Grape Varieties and Wines

The main grape variety is Nebbiolo, from which the renowned Barolo wines are produced. Barbera, Dolcetto and the white grape variety Arneis are also cultivated .

The portfolio comprises several Barolo ranges:

Barolo “Monfalletto” – the entry-level Barolo, which is already sourced from a single vineyard
Barolo “Enrico VI” – from the Villero cru, described as dry and complex
Barolo “Bricco Gattera” – made from old vines
Barolo Riserva “Gorette” – the top-of-the-range wine, produced only in the best vintages and in very small quantities of around 1,000 bottles

Style and Significance

Cordero di Montezemolo’s wines combine tradition with innovation. The style is characterised by elegance, depth and structure – powerful, yet never rustic. The Barolos display notes of ripe cherries, roses, spices and tar, supported by precise acidity and finely polished tannins.

The family holds particular historical significance: Paolo Cordero di Montezemolo, the father of the current owner, was a key figure in the introduction of the ‘new style’ of Barolo in the 1970s . The family officially enjoys the status of “Barolo and Barbaresco Grandi” in Italy .