The Germano estate, founded in 1856 by Francis Germano, began as a wine-growing property. It quickly established itself as one of the premier wine-growing estates in all of Piedmont. Sergio’s father, Ettore, was long recognized as a master grafter of the region. Producers all over the appellation paid him by the vine to replant their vineyards. So it comes as no surprise that Sergio has emerged as one of the best producers in Piedmont. After taking over in 1993, Sergio merged his formidable technical winemaking knowledge with his family’s great terroir, old vines and incredible tradition, creating an estate that has become among the very best in Barolo.
Prapo lies right next to the Germano’s house and cellars in Serralunga d’Alba. It is a highly regarded site with a south-east exposure and an altitude of 340 metres allowing for slow ripening of the fruit, which has been beneficial in recent Piemontese vintages. This vintage has a certain suppleness and a terrific mouthfeel; silkily textured in spite of the ripe tannins, with the vibrant red fruits carried forward with notes of spice and a citrus tang. To the finish, this young Barolo reveals a tauter nature, with more mineral, stony qualities emerging. Impressively pure, remarkably long.
Vintage: 2019
Country: Italy
Region: Piedmont
Appellation: Barolo
Grape: Nebbiolo
Farming: Organic
Drink: 2025-2040