The 2020 Poderi Colla "Bussia Dardi Le Rose" presents itself as a traditional Barolo wine that originates from the renowned vineyard in Monforte d'Alba. The Colla family under Tino Colla maintains the traditional terroir-first philosophy which Beppe Colla established as a pioneer of single-cru Barolo bottlings. The wine originates from the Dardi subzone within the Bussia cru where clay and limestone soil support vines that grow on steep south-facing slopes. The wine presents both classic and lifted characteristics through its aromatic combination of rose petals, wild cherry with leather, iron and dried herbs, while displaying subtle spice from Slavonian oak casks. The wine presents itself as firm and structured but maintains an elegant and transparent quality which differentiates it from other Barolos. The tannins maintain their noble quality while persisting through a finish that displays mineral characteristics because of the vineyard's special soil and elevation. At this price point, it’s one of my favorite bottles ever.

Given a couple hours of air, this wine has really opened up tremendously. While I enjoyed it earlier, given the time the aromatics have really come out to play. Bright red and black fruits, cherries and bramble fruits that are totally enveloped in rose petals and in the background some bitter green herbs. The palate is super focused and medium-light in body, but with a firm grip of tannins and a nice vibrant acidity. More rich and slightly tart and dusty red fruits, worn leather, and fresh tobacco. While this could be laid down for a while longer without any issue, with a little food this is super approachable for a younger Barolo. I could easily see having this with something a little richer to cut the tannins and balance out the acidity. This is super delicious and deep with a really great presence throughout from first sniff to finish.