Learning by Aging: Cristallo Basso, Cristallo Alto, and Cristallo Oro – A Celebration of Time and Identity

Distilling is just part of the story; choosing, blending, and appreciating value is equally important. The Cristalli line embodies the desire to push boundaries and express oneself, paying homage to the art of aging with care. 

Cristallo Alto and Cristallo Basso 

These are blends of grappas made from Nebbiolo from Barolo pomace, aged in small oak barrels. The Barolo grappas Cristallo Alto and Cristallo Basso emerge from a passion for exploring and highlighting the unique characteristics of special batches from the 1990s through the art of blending. This approach not only pays tribute to years of experience but also embraces a dynamic approach that gives space to the evolution of a distinctly personal flavor—a learning-by-aging process that celebrates the development of a unique identity. 

Creating an exceptional grappa goes beyond simple distillation. It involves combining different batches, each with its own story and unique traits, in a process akin to the craftsmanship of a chef, where each ingredient is meticulously balanced to achieve the perfect harmony of flavors and aromas. 

The Cristalli project aims to blend batches with varying levels of concentration while preserving the aromatic profile of the terroir and the grappa’s natural character, including its distinctive balsamic notes in both bouquet and aftertaste. This blend integrates a personal taste developed over the years, striking a delicate balance between the legacy of the land and the creative subjectivity of the master distiller. It’s in this subjectivity that the product’s uniqueness lies: it’s personal and non-replicable – it is a grappa of Marolo as much as it is of the land. 

Cristallo Oro Grappa di Barolo Riserva 30 anni 

The crown jewel of the Cristalli line is Cristallo Oro, a 30-year-old Barolo Grappa Riserva. Unlike the others, it’s crafted through the art of patience and aging – not from blending.

Cristallo Oro is the result of bottling a batch of Barolo grappa aged 30 years in oak and acacia casks, harking back to the pioneering days of the distillery. It captivates with its opulence, yet retains the distinctive freshness that comes from using Barolo. 

This grappa is rare and precious – not just because of its age but due to its status as a vintage Barolo grappa. Barolo grappa production is a niche, strictly regulated by precise standards, requiring about 800 kilograms of pomace per hectare to produce approximately 60 liters of pure grappa, yielding only 170 bottles per hectare. 

Furthermore, the extended aging period results in a significant volume reduction. During aging, grappa loses about 3.5% of its volume annually, releasing what is known as the “angel’s share.” Over 30 years, this results in an overall loss of 60-65%. 

The end product is a tale of evolution, marked by an extremely clear amber hue and surprising softness, with a rich and complex aromatic bouquet. It features dominant fruity notes ranging from dried fruit to cooked and candied fruit, with hints of prune and raisin. Complementing these are delicate floral hints reminiscent of honey, sensations of spices such as cinnamon, tobacco, and licorice, and a vanilla finish that reflects the influence of the barrels. 

All Cristalli grappas are presented in elegant crystal decanters crafted by the master glassmakers of Colle Val d’Elsa and housed in finely lacquered wooden boxes made by Sorrento artisans. Cristallo Oro is adorned with a gold label from Valenza and accompanied by lithographs by Gianni Gallo. 

Want to learn more? Stay tuned – we’ll soon share the story of the craftsmanship that adorns our Cristalli!