2017 Paolo Scavino Barolo "Prapò", Piedmont, Italy

ABOUT THE WINE

Prapò comes from a steep, south-facing vineyard in Serralunga d’Alba, one of Barolo’s historic communes. Scavino’s parcel is open and windy, with red sand and marl soils. Enrico acquired it in 2008 and undertook substantial vineyard work, using selected plant material from the estate to develop a site capable of standing alongside the family’s established crus.

This 100% Nebbiolo is vinified separately, in keeping with Scavino’s practice of studying each vineyard before making its final selections. The estate’s broader Barolo approach uses native yeasts and temperature-controlled fermentation, followed by oak maturation intended to refine structure and preserve the distinctions between sites.

The 2017 carries dark plum and black-cherry fruit, with licorice, spice and an iron-like mineral note. Its ripe, substantial palate has polished tannins and a savory dimension. We suggest braised beef, roast venison or a rich mushroom dish, allowing the wine’s concentration and structure to work alongside a full-flavored meal.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER

The Scavino family founded its winery in Castiglione Falletto in 1921, through the work of Lorenzo and his son Paolo. Paolo’s son Enrico devoted more than seven decades to the estate, combining close attention to vineyards with a readiness to experiment in the cellar.

His daughters Enrica and Elisa continue that legacy. The family’s holdings span several Barolo communes, and parcels are vinified separately, sometimes in multiple lots, to understand differences in soil, exposure and vine age. Rigorous selection determines the final bottlings. The aim is to show the range of Nebbiolo’s expressions across Barolo while maintaining healthy fruit and precision throughout the process.