Cannubi Barolo: Why Is This Barolo Wine So Famous and the Origin of Its Name

Why Cannubi is so famous?

Cannubi Barolo is one of the most prestigious crus of the Barolo DOCG, renowned for its elegance, balance, and aging potential. Its unique terroir blends Tortonian and Serravallian soils, offering both finesse and structure. Documented since 18th century, it holds a historic legacy as one of the earliest recognized Barolo vineyards. With an aromatic profile of roses, red fruit, and spices, and silky tannins, Cannubi is more approachable in youth while maintaining exceptional longevity. Its prime location and ideal microclimate ensure the perfect ripening of Nebbiolo, making it a benchmark for Barolo wines.

Why Is It Called Cannubi?

Theories Behind the Name

There are two main theories about the origin of the name:

• From Latin “Connubium” (Marriage or Union):

  The name might come from connubium, meaning “union” or “marriage,” referring to the rare combination of two soil types:
• Tortonian → marl, limestone, and sand → gives elegance & fragrance.
• Serravallian → compact clay & sandstone → provides structure & longevity.
  This “marriage” of soils is exceptionally rare in Barolo and contributes to Cannubi’s signature balance of finesse and power.

• From “Canneto” (Reeds or Canes):

  The name could also derive from canneto, meaning “reeds,” possibly referring to the area’s landscape before vineyard cultivation.

Historical Importance

Cannubi is one of the first officially recognized vineyard names in Italy, appearing in records as early as 1752. This historic status underscores its long-standing reputation as one of Barolo’s greatest crus.

Where Is Cannubi Located?

Cannubi sits at the heart of Barolo DOCG, just east of the town of Barolo, at an elevation of 250–290 meters. Its south to southeast exposure ensures optimal sunlight absorption, creating ideal ripening conditions for Nebbiolo, the grape behind all Barolo wines.

Terroir & Climate

Soil Composition: A unique blend of Tortonian and Serravallian soils.
Climate: A moderate continental climate with warm summers and cool nights, preserving acidity and aromatic depth.
Ventilation: Excellent airflow reduces disease risk, keeping the grapes healthy.
Neighboring Crus: Cannubi is bordered by Brunate (La Morra), San Lorenzo, and Terlo, forming a highly sought-after cluster of Barolo vineyards.

What Is Cannubi?

Cannubi is not a single vineyard but a broader hilltop area with several officially recognized subzones:

• Cannubi (the core vineyard)
• Cannubi Boschis
• Cannubi Valletta
• Cannubi Muscatel
• Cannubi San Lorenzo

Although each subzone has distinct characteristics, most producers simply label their wines as “Cannubi” due to the historical prestige associated with the name.

A Cannubi Barolo is instantly recognizable: refined, aromatic, and structured, yet more approachable in its youth than the bolder wines of Serralunga d'Alba or Monforte.

The Unique Terroir of Cannubi

Soil Composition

Cannubi’s terroir is unique in Barolo, positioned at the geological intersection of two distinct eras:

• Tortonian (11 million years old)

  ➝ Marl, limestone, and sand → Produces fragrant, elegant, and softer Barolos.

• Serravallian (13 million years old, also known as Elvetian)

  ➝ Compact clay and sandstone → Adds structure, depth, and long aging potential.

Microclimate

Cannubi benefits from an exceptional microclimate characterized by:

✔️ Optimal sun exposure for full ripeness.
✔️ Moderate temperatures that prevent excessive heat or cold stress.
✔️ Consistent ventilation, reducing humidity-related diseases.

These ideal conditions allow Cannubi Barolo wines to reach perfect ripeness even in challenging vintages.

Tasting Profile: The Signature Elegance of Cannubi Barolo

A Cannubi Barolo is instantly recognizable for its harmony of aromatics, structure, and longevity.

Aromatic Profile

Floral: Rose, violet, dried flowers
Red Fruit: Cherry, raspberry, pomegranate
Spice & Earth: White pepper, truffle, tobacco

Structure & Aging Potential

• Silky tannins, making the wine more accessible in youth.
• Balanced acidity, ensuring freshness and elegance over time.
• Aging potential: 20+ years, evolving into complex notes of leather, dried fruit, and forest floor.

Unlike the more tannic, powerful Barolos from Serralunga or Monforte, Cannubi offers earlier drinkability while still aging gracefully for decades.

Cannubi vs. Other Barolo Crus: The Benchmark of Elegance

While Vigna Rionda and Bussia are known for their bold power and tannic grip, Cannubi excels in grace, perfume, and finesse—making it one of the most desirable Barolo wines for collectors and connoisseurs.

Cannubi is more than just a vineyard—it is a living icon of Barolo’s winemaking heritage. Its unique terroir, historic significance, and timeless elegance make it one of the most coveted crus in Barolo.

With records dating back to 1752, Cannubi continues to set the gold standard for refined, age-worthy Barolo wines, offering a perfect balance between early drinkability and long-term aging potential.

For Nebbiolo lovers and serious collectors, Cannubi Barolo remains one of the most prized expressions of Barolo, truly embodying the marriage of tradition and terroir.

Vinai del Borgo: Your Italian Wine Enoteca in the heart of Langhe in Piemonte

After a long experience in the wine world, Paul Borgogno founded Borgogno Wines Selections in 1994, with the goal of selecting high-quality Italian wines for foreign markets. In 2021, we opened a new chapter with the launch of Vinai del Borgo Enoteca Mondovi (Cuneo in Langhe). Located in the historic center of Breo, near the Langhe, in the heart of Piedmont, the enoteca serves as a meeting point between tradition and innovation. Today, Vinai del Borgo serves customers in Italy, the EU, and the USA, further expanding our reach through our Online Shop. We have just launched our 'Friends with Wine Benefits Program,' allowing our customers to earn free wine by introducing us to their friends and fellow wine enthusiasts. Our idea, as always, is to focus on people, who are at the heart of the wine world.