Looking Back on 2024: Achievements, Ambitions, and Recognition

As we approach the end of 2024, we’re taking a moment to reflect on a year of growth, innovation, and milestones that have shaped our story. Looking back with gratitude, we see the results of our dedication in the vineyard and the cellar, where investments in sustainability and technological innovation – projects envisioned by Michele – have been carried forward with determination.

This year, we replanted 10 hectares of Barbera for Nizza DOCG, ensuring our vineyards can thrive in the face of evolving climate challenges. We’ve also embraced sustainability, from installing solar panels to move toward energy self-sufficiency to upgrading our winery with a state-of-the-art bottling line that’s both environmentally conscious and worker-friendly. These initiatives reflect our belief that innovation isn’t just about technology – it’s about caring for the land and the people who make what we do possible.

On the global stage, we continued our mission of sharing Piedmont with the world. From industry events to one-on-one meetings with wine lovers and professionals, we’ve celebrated the passion and purpose behind every bottle we produce.

We also published the third edition of C.R.U, our in-house magazine. This special issue honors Michele’s legacy through personal stories, memories, and reflections shared by the people he shared a piece of his story with. It’s a tribute not only to his vision but also to the collective journey we continue to build together.

This year also brought exciting new projects. We inaugurated the Cannubi Path, an artistic installation by Ugo Nespolo that weaves through the iconic vineyard, offering visitors a unique blend of nature and creativity. Complementing this is a new exhibition at Palás Cerequio, where Nespolo’s work meets the history of our wines in a space that celebrates the intersection of art and winemaking.

Palás Cerequio itself grew this year, with the addition of new suites and a panoramic terrace. We also introduced the first Sky Bar in the Langhe, creating an unparalleled space where stunning vineyard views and wine culture come together to offer unforgettable experiences.

2024 was a year of renewed leadership and forward-thinking vision. Stefano Chiarlo was re-elected as president of the Nizza DOCG, reaffirming our deep connection to this appellation and the ongoing work we do to elevate its reputation. In May, we celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Istituto Grandi Marchi, a groundbreaking initiative founded by Michele, alongside other visionary producers and Giancarlo Voglino, to champion Italian fine wines on the global stage. (Read Giancarlo’s interview in the latest edition of C.R.U. HERE)

The Grand Wine Tour, an association dedicated to promoting high-end wine tourism and of which we’ve been proud members since its inception, underwent a leadership change this year. With a renewed board and presidency, the focus has shifted even more toward strengthening our presence at prestigious wine events and fairs. We remain deeply committed to this project, which continues to showcase the wines and hospitality of Italy’s finest wineries on a global stage, making us ambassadors of an invaluable heritage.

A highlight of the year was the debut of Montestefano Barbaresco DOCG Riserva, a wine originating from one of the denomination’s most historic and prestigious plots. Often described as producing “the most Barolo-like of Barbarescos”,  this vineyard is celebrated for yielding wines of remarkable structure and longevity.

After a great first semester, our wines continued to earn praise from top critics. Among the highlights:

• Walter Speller (JancisRobinson.com) awarded 17.5 points to Barbaresco Montestefano 2019, calling it “elegant and concentrated, with great length.”
• Bruce Sanderson (Wine Spectator) rated Barbaresco Asili 2021 and Cannubi Riserva Barolo DOCG 2016 94 points each, highlighting their harmony and richness. He also gave 94 points to Cerequio Barolo DOCG 2019, praising its balance and vibrancy.
• Jeff Porter (Wine Enthusiast) awarded 94 points to Cerequio 2020, saying it “showcases the vibrancy of fruit from this vineyard”, and to Faset Barbaresco DOCG 2021, describing it as “a tapestry of  flavors”. He also gave our La Court Nizza DOCG Riserva 2020  93 points, our Cannubi Barolo DOCG 2020 92 points.

Adding to these accolades, La Court Nizza DOCG Riserva 2021 earned its 10th Tre Bicchieri from Gambero Rosso and 5 Grappoli from Bibenda. Falstaff’s Othmar Kiem and Simon Staffler joined in the praise, awarding the wine 95 points.

Our dedication to hospitality was also recognized. Food & Wine named us among the 50 best wineries for wine tourism, and Milano Finanza highlighted us as one of the top wine resorts born from great wines and visionary producers. Meanwhile, Wine Spectator honored La Corte restaurant with the Best of Award of Excellence for the depth and quality of its wine list.

These are just some of the accolades we’ve received this year. For a full list of scores, we invite you to follow us on our social media channels and explore the Wines section of our website.

We’re proud of what we’ve achieved this year and grateful to everyone who has been part of our journey – from the vineyard to the cellar, and from our corner of Piedmont to tables around the world. Here’s to continuing this extraordinary adventure together.