Dubbed the ‘king of wines and wine of kings’, Barolo is one of Italy’s most prestigious appellations. The vineyard lies in Piedmont, south of Alba, on rolling hills at around 300 metres of altitude, facing south and south-west. The soils, mainly marl and limestone, lend the wines refined tannins and impressive longevity. The grapes are hand-harvested in October when the Nebbiolo reaches full phenolic maturity. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless-steel vats, with a long maceration of 15 to 20 days and regular pump overs. The wine is then aged for five years, including at least two in Slavonian oak foudres (large tuns), followed by extended bottle ageing.
In the glass, the wine reveals a gorgeous deep garnet-red. The nose is intense and captivating, unfolding aromas of dried rose, black cherry, leather, truffle, blond tobacco, liquorice and tar. On the palate, the attack is generous and structured, carried by firm yet well-integrated tannins. The freshness is remarkable, the texture silky, and the long finish lingers offering balsamic, spicy and mineral notes.