Cannubi: Italy's Oldest Cru 

Cannubi is the most famous of Barolo’s MGAs, coveted by many but cultivated by few. It is also the oldest cru in Italy, with the first bottle bearing its name on the label dating back to 1752 – now preserved in the Manzone family archive in Bra. However, Cannubi’s most notable historical mention comes from Lorenzo Fantini, who, in his renowned Monografia Sulla Viticoltura ed Enologia nella Provincia di Cuneo published in 1879, identified it as one of the best vineyard positions in the region. This marked the beginning of Cannubi’s rise to fame in winemaking, a reputation that soon spread across Italy and eventually the world, thanks to producers skilled in highlighting its unique qualities in exceptional Barolos.

Nestled in the heart of Barolo, this vineyard sits at the junction of two geological regions: the deep, compact Elveziano soils and the softer Tortoniano soils. Everything here is perfect – the altitude, exposure, soil, slope, and microclimate all contribute to producing Barolo at the pinnacle of the denomination. 

Cannubi, however, is not “just” Cannubi. It comprises various subzones, each with its own subtle nuances and distinctive traits, adding richness and complexity to the expression of this extraordinary cru.

When referred to simply as “Cannubi,” it denotes the central part of the hill, the largest area (around 15 hectares) and historically the most renowned. To the northeast lies Cannubi Boschis, while to the southwest is Cannubi San Lorenzo, located northwest of the ridge. Cannubi Valletta extends southeast, reaching the road to Alba, and Cannubi Muscatel sits closest to the town of Barolo.

Cannubi Boschis (o Monghisolfo)

Cannubi Boschis, also known as Monghisolfo, is one of the most esteemed subzones, covering around 7 hectares with optimal southeast exposure. Historically linked to families that helped build its reputation, this area is known for producing wines of great elegance and longevity. The soils here are sandy with white marl, which lend finesse and a pronounced aromatic quality to the wines. Its privileged location, well-exposed to sunlight, has made Cannubi Boschis one of the most prized areas within the cru.

Cannubi Muscatel

Cannubi Muscatel lies at the heart of Barolo, at the beginning of the hill range that stretches towards Monghisolfo and covers about 4.5 hectares with southeast exposure. The soil here is slightly richer than in other Cannubi subzones. The name “Muscatel” likely derives from the historical presence of vineyards grafted onto Moscato vines that were cultivated here before the arrival of phylloxera. Despite some urbanization in the area, the quality of the grapes remains exceptional; Muscatel wines are known for their richness and structure.

Cannubi San Lorenzo

Cannubi San Lorenzo is named after an ancient church that once stood on this hill. Spanning around 2 hectares with favorable southeast exposure, this subzone features soft, sandy soils similar to those of central Cannubi. In addition to the church, the area also housed a lazaretto and an old cemetery. Wines from Cannubi San Lorenzo stand out for their fine balance and nuanced complexity, offering remarkable aging potential while maintaining a close connection to the unique Cannubi terroir.

Cannubi Valletta

Cannubi Valletta is one of the larger subzones, covering around 6 hectares. Located in a hollow facing south and southeast, this area benefits from a particularly favorable microclimate, although ripening can be more challenging in the lower parts near the Alba-Barolo road. In the mid- to upper sections, however, the conditions are perfect for producing exceptional wines. Cannubi Valletta’s unique soils and exposure result in Barolos that reflect the delicate balance between structure and finesse, making them sought after for their distinctive character.