Nebbiolo and Barolo: a dance of the grape and the land.
Nebbiolo is the pride and joy of Piedmont in northwestern Italy. Its name, linked to the Italian “Nebbia” or fog, nods to the late harvest that the variety is commended for reaching maturity well into autumn (although in recent vintages, it seems not to be the case with harvest in September).
Known for its pale garnet colour, high acidity, and robust tannins, Nebbiolo offers aromas of red fruits, roses, violets, and subtle tar and earth notes.
Barolo, the “king of wines and the wine of kings,” exclusively features Nebbiolo grapes from the Barolo wine zone.
The soils of Barolo are complex and diverse. They are predominantly composed of limestone, which provides excellent drainage and contributes to the wines’ unique mineral qualities. In Serralunga and Monforte, significant sandstone outcrops add further complexity to the terroir. This diverse soil composition is a critical factor in the distinct character of Barolo wines.
Factors such as sun exposure and altitude greatly influence the character and quality of Barolo wines, particularly in the areas known as ‘Cru’, ‘Sori’, or ‘Vigne’. Each of these designated areas possesses a distinctive combination of elements that contribute to the diverse styles of Barolo. Notable examples of these areas include Cannubi, Margheria, Pagliaro, Bussia, Brunate, and Monvigliero, each with unique characteristics.
When discussing the vineyards of Barolo, several factors come into play. The rugged, hilly landscape has many different aspects and exposures. Given the ever-warming climate, vineyards in locations that were once deemed too cold to produce world-class Barolos are now thriving. Altitude plays a significant role in determining the final style of the wines. Vineyards are typically located at lower altitudes in the northern part of La Morra and at higher altitudes in the southeastern side of Serralunga and Monforte, resulting in distinct stylistic differences. It is a fantastic exercise to taste wines from the La Morra side alongside those from Serralunga.
Barolo is carefully crafted through a meticulous process of maceration and ageing. Depending on the winemaking philosophy, this ageing process occurs in either large oak casks or smaller barriques. The main goal of this maturation process is to soften the mighty tannins on Nebbiolo and allow for the development of complex and captivating aromas. According to regulations, Barolo must undergo a minimum of 38 months of ageing, with at least 18 months spent in oak or chestnut barrels, resulting in a wine of exceptional depth and character.
Celebrated for its ageing potential, Barolo has evolved over decades, revealing nuanced aromas and softening tannins. Nebbiolo and Barolo are integral to Piedmont’s culture and are enjoyed with local cuisine, embodying tradition and winemaking history. Globally recognized, Barolo wines attract enthusiasts and collectors for their complexity, ageing prowess, and terroir representation.
When allowed to mature, Barolo wines are among some of the very best in the world. They evolve into Tar, Green Tea, and Dried Violet.
We are incredibly proud to offer a selection of Paolo Scavino, a quintessential producer of Barolo. The range of nine Barolo wines is led by the Bric Dël Fiasc (from the Fiasco cru in Castiglione Falletto and produced in both standard and Riserva bottlings), the Cannubi, and the Riserva Rocche dell’Annunziata which is aged for an additional year both in large casks and in bottle, and is sourced from a cru vineyard in La Morra, and most excitingly hardly ever seen on the market selection of large formats up to 5L with long maturation.
Looking for more mouthwatering, though provoking Nebbiolo Vigneros, look no further
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