My first experience of Elio Sandri wines was in November 2019 in Piedmont with a friend and it was a Barolo Perno Riserva 2011 side by side with Barolo Riserva 2011 Accomasso. There is no doubt the Accomasso was delicious but the Sandri was on a different level – more intense, compact, pure and lengthy.
Elio Sandri is based in Monfortino and focus on the Perno vineyard which lies between 300 to 500 metres above sea level. Elio practices very non interventionist viticultural and winemaking methods. His wines express a hypothetical blend of Castiglione and Serralunga. The Barbera and Dolcetto are also incredible expressions of the grape varieties.
I believe that Elio Sandri is truly one of the relatively unknown stars of Piedmont and that his currently undervalued wines are certain to rise as the upcoming years pass. Apart from the 2011 Perno Riserva, I’ve really enjoyed the 2012 Perno Riserva which is more reserved and so classy. I await further drinking experiences of this great property.
