Two bottles of Giacomo Conterno Barolo Arione — 2018 and 2021 — from one of the most coveted and collectible single-vineyard Barolos in existence, produced by the undisputed king of Barolo. The Arione cru in Serralunga d’Alba was acquired by Roberto Conterno in 2015 — adjacent to the legendary Cascina Francia, it shares the same iron-rich soils of Helvetian origin but with an even more pronounced southern exposure. Bruno Giacosa helped make Arione legendary in the 1970s; today Roberto Conterno has brought it back to glory with a series of wines that have already become instant classics. Aged in large Slavonian oak botti, native yeasts, traditional long maceration. The 2018 is described as “wild and exotic — almost animalistic, demanding attention — sage, menthol, white pepper and orange peel, with a generous kick of Serralunga acidity and tannin.” Rated 96/100 Decanter, 95/100 Vinous, 94-96/100 Wine Advocate. Best from 2027–2055. The 2021 is a revelation — 100/100 Falstaff, 97/100 James Suckling, 97/100 Jeb Dunnuck, 97/100 Vinous. Multilayered and generous, with dried violets, potpourri, licorice, cherry pits and pomegranate; full-bodied and almost salty, with firm dusty tannins and great fruit concentration. Both bottles in perfect condition — intact labels and capsules, top fill level. Stored in a professional temperature-controlled cellar.