Poderi Aldo Conterno Bussiador 2022

The Aldo Conterno winery rapidly achieved success due to its high quality and Aldo Conterno's heritage from a renowned family of winegrowers, Giacomo Conterno. The Conterno family's wine production in the Barolo region dates back to the 19th century, initially selling wine in barrels. Aldo's grandfather, Giovanni, pioneered the production of high-quality Barolo Riserva in the 1920s. Aldo's father, Giacomo, further elevated the winery's reputation after taking over in the late 1930s. In 1961, Giacomo's sons took charge, but differing visions led Aldo to pursue his own path. In 1969, Aldo purchased the Fattoria Favot farm in Bussia's prime locations and founded Poderi Aldo Conterno, favoring a softer, fruitier wine style.

The grapes for the Bussiador Chardonnay come from vineyards located in the Bussia area of Monforte d’Alba, a site better known for world-class Barolo, but which also delivers exceptional quality for Chardonnay. The vineyards are situated at around 350 meters above sea level, with limestone-rich soils that give the wine its characteristic mineral backbone. Fermentation takes place in French oak barriques, followed by several months of aging on the lees, adding texture and depth. Bussiador is a rare expression of Langhe Chardonnay: creamy and rich, yet finely balanced by vibrant acidity and minerality. Notes of ripe peach, toasted almonds, vanilla, and wet stone unfold in the glass.

The 2022 vintage in the Langhe was marked by contrasts, with an unusually dry and hot summer following a mild and relatively stable spring. Early vegetative growth was steady, supported by sufficient water reserves from winter. Flowering occurred uniformly, and fruit set was healthy, leading to balanced yields. The summer heat, though persistent, was mitigated by cool nights, which helped preserve acidity and aromatic freshness in the white varieties — especially Chardonnay. Producers in the Langhe noted excellent ripening conditions for Chardonnay in 2022, with small, concentrated berries and vibrant aromatics. Harvesting was done with precision to retain acidity and avoid over-ripeness. The result: a vintage that offers expressive, fruit-driven whites with surprising structure and aging potential. For many estates, including Aldo Conterno, 2022 marks one of the most harmonious and complete Chardonnay vintages in recent memory.