Elio Grasso, Barolo Riserva DOCG, Runcot

About Elio Grasso

Elio Grasso is a distinguished wine producer based in Monforte d’Alba, within the heart of the Barolo appellation in Piedmont, Italy. The estate, family-owned and operated, traces its origins to the early 20th century, though its modern chapter began in the late 1970s when Elio Grasso returned to his ancestral roots after a career in banking. With a vision to craft wines that express the unique terroir of their land, Elio and his family shifted their focus from mixed agriculture to specialized viticulture, gradually replanting and restoring their vineyards with meticulous care.

The Grasso estate encompasses about 18 hectares, with 14 dedicated to vines and the remainder left as natural woodland. This balance allows for a healthy ecosystem and contributes to the vitality of the vineyards. The property is situated in the Ginestra cru, a site celebrated for its exceptional soils and microclimate. The vineyards are primarily planted to Nebbiolo, but also include Dolcetto, Barbera, and a small amount of Chardonnay, offering a diverse range of wines that reflect both tradition and innovation.

Elio Grasso’s philosophy centers on respect for the land and minimal intervention in both the vineyard and the cellar. The family practices sustainable viticulture, employing manual labor for most vineyard tasks and avoiding the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Grapes are harvested by hand, allowing for careful selection and ensuring only the best fruit is used for their wines. In the cellar, the approach is equally thoughtful: fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, and aging occurs in a mix of large Slavonian oak casks and smaller French barriques, depending on the wine and the vintage.

The estate’s flagship wines are its Barolos, particularly those from the Ginestra “Casa Maté” and Gavarini “Chiniera” vineyards. These single-vineyard expressions are known for their depth, complexity, and aging potential, each capturing the nuances of their specific sites. The Barolos are complemented by other bottlings, including a vibrant Barbera d’Alba “Vigna Martina,” a fresh Dolcetto d’Alba “dei Grassi,” and a crisp Langhe Chardonnay. Each wine is crafted with an eye toward balance, elegance, and fidelity to the character of the vintage.

The Grasso family’s commitment to quality has earned the estate a loyal following among wine enthusiasts and critics alike. Today, Elio’s son Gianluca oversees daily operations, upholding the values and standards set by his father. The estate remains relatively small, allowing for hands-on management and attention to detail at every stage of production. Visits to the winery are warmly welcomed, providing guests with an opportunity to experience firsthand the passion and dedication that define Elio Grasso’s wines.

Elio Grasso continues to exemplify the best of Barolo, combining traditional practices with a forward-looking sensibility. The result is a portfolio of wines that are both true to their origins and consistently among the most compelling in the region. Through careful stewardship of their land and an unwavering focus on excellence, the Grasso family has secured their place among the leading producers in Piedmont, offering wines that are celebrated for their purity, structure, and sense of place.