OLEK BONDONIO

Olek Bondonio has quickly become one of the most sought-after names in Barbaresco.

Olek grew up in the family’s farmhouse, La Berchialla, which sits amongst some of Barbaresco’s most famous crus. The estate has been in his family for several centuries. A former professional snowboarder, Olek finished his wine studies in 1993 and travelled to gain experience in Australia, New Zealand and France. He finally returned to the Langhe and made is inaugural vintage in 2005.

Bondonio’s ancestors almost accidentally chose some of the greatest terroirs in Barbaresco – Starderi, Roncaglie and Roncagliette. He also works with parcels in Altavilla and Catagnole delle Lanze.

In the vineyards, all work is organic, with a real hands-on approach. Funnily, when meeting Olek for the first time in 2024, he was very busy clearing weeds in the vineyards; he saw me arrive, ran in from the vineyards and began the tour without noticing he was still in his full weeding suit with a protective mask on. Amazing and hilarious!

In the winery, he takes a hands-off approach, exhibiting patience and wisdom in his wines that are aligned with the greatest of all producers. Fermentation is done in large cement tanks, followed by ageing in large Slavonian Gamba Botti and Austrian Stockinger Foudre. The resulting wines are intense, perfumed, deep and simply gorgeous. These wines are an ode to how wine was made in the past.

Olek has undoubtedly risen to be one of the very best Barbaresco has to offer.