Paolo Conterno, by Beatrice Bessi

Sommeliers’ Diaries

Our passionate and very inspiring Assistant Head Sommelier, Beatrice, shares some stories about wines and people behind them.

Beatrice meets Giorgio Conterno

“Working at 67 Pall Mall gives you the opportunity to meet wine personalities like Mr Giorgio Conterno from Paolo Conterno winery, a traditional winemaker, using only very old botti of more than 30hl.
The winery is based in Monforte d’Alba, one of the most prestigious “comune” of Barolo.
We embarked on a wine tasting adventure together”.

Tasting notes

“First, the white Föra. Föra means “outsider” in Italian as is 100% Gewürztraminer.
It is grown in less steep vineyards where the clay in the soil has more importance. This helps the wines to be richer in texture.

Then we tasted Barbera d’Alba 2015 and Barolo 2015 from Ginestra vineyard.
It is one of the top vineyards in Barolo. The full body structure and tannins of the wines are counterbalanced with finesse. It is already showing the ripe delicious red fruits as the warmer yet classic vintage was promising.

And as the cherry on the cake, we had the opportunity to taste a Barolo Riserva Ginestra from 2010.
Just upon pouring the wine, the glass already shows all the potential of an excellent vintage. Layers of red berries, plums, figs, black berries, mint leaves, white mushrooms, shaved nutmeg…
Never-ending!”

Do not hesitate to ask the bubbly Beatrice about her favourite wineries and recommendations when you see her in the Club. She has got a lot to say about her wines!