Pecchenino’s Barolo Le Coste di Monforte 2020 is a single-vineyard Barolo DOCG made from 100% Nebbiolo grown in the Le Coste di Monforte MGA in Monforte d’Alba. Pecchenino’s work here dates to 2004, when the estate acquired vineyards in this part of the commune; the first vintage of this bottling was 2004. The site is clearly defined: vines sit around 440 meters with a southeast exposure on medium-textured soils marked by whitish marls, conditions that typically support aromatic lift and firm structure in Nebbiolo.
In the cellar, the estate keeps the approach classic and controlled. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel at controlled temperatures, followed by post-fermentation maceration using the submerged-cap method. Aging is split between oak casks and cement tanks, a combination that often aims to preserve Nebbiolo’s fragrance while building texture and longevity.
Aromatically, official tasting notes point to a traditionally savory Barolo register—garnet in color, with notes including hay, violet, tobacco, white pepper, wild mint, and licorice. Wine Enthusiast’s review reinforces that profile while leaning into fruit and spice, describing “wild red berries,” “baking spices,” and “a touch of vanilla,” alongside a “fresh herbal quality of crushed leaves.” On structure, Wine Enthusiast calls out “well-constructed tannins” and an “earthy, savory” palate, suggesting a wine built for the table and for time in the cellar.
For broader context, Wine Spectator rated the 2020 Barolo vintage 95 points, calling it “accessible, elegant and charming,” with a season that was “warm but not hot,” and advising “Drink or hold.” Some retailer-circulated bottle-specific scores have been reported (including a 95 from James Suckling and low-to-mid 90s from others), but these are not independently confirmed here; the most solid takeaways come from the detailed Wine Enthusiast note and the strong overall reputation of the 2020 vintage in Barolo.