Giovanni Canonica: The Artisan of Barolo
For years, wine enthusiasts have praised Giovanni Canonica’s wines despite their rarity, as most of his production is exported to Japan.
Canonica’s first harvest dates back to 1983, a challenging time for the Barolo region when wine was mostly sold in bulk. Few winemakers dared to take a different approach, but he was one of the first, embracing a minimalist and authentic philosophy. His process relies on minimal intervention in the vineyard, without agricultural dogma, and a traditional winemaking method: foot-stomping, native yeast fermentation, long aging in large old oak barrels, and no temperature control.
In the 1990s, as interest in less artificial wines grew, the first Japanese importers discovered his work and quickly claimed his entire production. Even today, nearly half of his 10,000 bottles, including two Barolo and one Nebbiolo, are sent to Japan.
Canonica cultivates his four hectares—including the prestigious Paiagallo vineyard, located at 300-400 meters above sea level—without chemicals, maintaining a traditional and natural approach. His Barolo Paiagallo stands out for its energy, transparency, and depth, reminiscent of some of the region’s greatest wines: the haunting black cherry of Cascina Francia, the ripe yet intense tannins of Bartolo Mascarello, the rustic elegance of G. Rinaldi, and the pure vibrancy of Cappellano. His Grinzane Cavour, slightly less tannic, follows the same philosophy of classic Barolo—structured, energetic, and deeply expressive.
With its handwritten label and lightweight bottles, Canonica embodies a return to essentials. Drink what’s inside is his philosophy. A true artisan of Barolo, whose wines we are proud to offer.