Barolo

Barolo wine: the queen of red wines

Barolo wine, also known as Queen of red wines, is a noble and traditional wine variety. It originates from Italy. It has now conquered the hearts of wine lovers all over the world. Let us take you on a journey through the origin, production and unique characteristics of Barolo wine.

The origin and history of Barolo wine

The area of origin and namesake of the legendary northern Italian wine is the municipality of Barolo in Piedmont. It was produced there as a sweet wine until well into the 18th century. The late harvest of the Nebbiolo grapes still caused problems back then. During the fermentation period, which could often only be completed in winter, it was sometimes so cold that the yeasts in the wine cellars died off. As a result, the sugar was only partially converted into alcohol.

In the 19th century, the French oenologist Louis Oudart finally found a remedy. Oudart moved the fermentation process to underground wine cellars and ensured constant temperatures. He also improved hygiene in the cellar. His support was mainly directed at the wineries of Marchesa Giulia Falletti di Barolo and Count Camillo Benso di Cavour. It was at these estates that Barolo wine was first produced as dry red wine. He was also allowed to use the royal hunting lodge Fontanafredda in Serralunga d'Alba and the surrounding vineyards for his experiments. This is how Barolo came to his royal fans, the House of Savoy. They soon christened it Wine of Kings and King of Wines. The dynasty is now disempowered. However, Barolo wine is and remains at the top of Italian wines.

Regions and terroir

Barolo is mainly grown in the municipalities of Barolo, Castiglione Falletto, Serralunga d'Alba, La Morra and Monforte d'Alba in the province of Cuneo in the Piemonte growing region. The unique combination of climatic conditions and soil composition in this region creates the ideal environment for growing the Nebbiolo grape. Barolo is made from this grape.

The Nebbiolo grape - the heart of Barolo wine

Barolo is not made from several grape varieties. Instead, Barolo is made almost exclusively from the Nebbiolo grape variety. It is known for its full body, high acidity and strong tannins. The grapes are harvested by hand, usually at the end of September or beginning of October. This ensures that they are fully ripe.

Taste and characteristics of Barolo wine

Depending on the variety and age, Baroli has a fruity or intense flavor. They shine in a magnificent garnet to brick red. However, they are not deep red. Good Barolo wine offers nuances of plums, raspberries and cherries. But also accents of violets, hay, truffles, licorice or tobacco. The long ageing period is due to the very tannic skins.

Barolo red wines only become drinkable years later. They then have an alcohol content of up to 15 percent.

Barolo wines are characterized by their strong structure, complex taste and intense aroma. The aromas range from ripe cherries and rose petals to spices and leather. The wines are known for their longevity and often develop over many years.

The perfect accompaniment for culinary delights

Barolo wines and hearty dishes such as braised meat, dishes with fillet of beef or game make sensational partners. A cheese platter is also suitable for pairing with this great Italian red wine. Preferably with blue cheese, which brings out the aromas of the Barolo in particular. The powerful taste and tannins harmonize perfectly with the intense aromas of the food. And they make it a special pleasure experience.

Chocolate with a cocoa content of 85% can be an equally good accompaniment to the famous Barolo grape juice.

Because of its distinctive tannins, Barolo wine should never be drunk too cool. Bring it to a drinking temperature of 16-18 °C in the decanter for at least one hour . The tannins will then fuse into a more harmonious whole.

Baroli are wines with great ageing potential. Top-quality products can be kept in a cool, dry and dark place for up to 20 years.

Long ageing period, high quality: Barolo

In 1966, the Barolo DOC appellation and DOCG status were granted in 1980. To ensure high quality, the wine is produced according to strict regulations. It must be aged for at least three years, two of which must be in barrels. Only then is a Barolo wine released for the market.

The designation Barolo Riserva may only be used for wines that have been aged for at least four years, including at least three years in barrel. A Barolo Riserva Speciale matures for a full five years, four of which are spent in wooden barrels.

Baroli from the 2006, 2008 and 2010 vintages are classified as classic. Although hard and rich in tannins, they are said to have longevity. Products from the 2007, 2009 and 2011 vintages are distinct and accessible. Those who want to dig a little deeper into their pockets can invest in a Barolo red wine from the 1990s. The 1996 and 1999 vintages are very popular.

The ageing of Barolo wines

Barolo wines are matured in wooden barrels, usually made of oak, for a period of at least two years. They then continue to mature in the bottle to develop their complexity and maturity. The total ageing period is often five years or more before they are released onto the market.

The Barolo top sellers at VINELLO

Immerse yourself in the world of exquisite wines and discover our top sellers in the Barolo category. This selection represents the best that the renowned Barolo region has to offer - a symbiosis of tradition, craftsmanship and incomparable taste. Our top sellers set standards and invite you on a special wine journey:

1. Serralunga d'Alba Barolo DOCG - Fontanafredda: This Barolo from Serralunga d'Alba is from the Fontanafredda winery. It impresses with its deep ruby red color. It has intense aromas of red fruits, violets and spices. It is powerful on the palate with well-integrated tannins.

2. Barolo DOCG - Costa di Bussia: The Barolo Costa di Bussia fascinates with its intense garnet red color. It has a complex bouquet of blackberries, violets and spices. This characterful wine comes from the Costa di Bussia estate. It impresses with its balanced structure and long-lasting finesse.

3. Serre dei Roveri Barolo DOCG - Sartirano: The Barolo Terre dei Roveri is another jewel from Costa di Bussia. With intense aromas of dark fruit, licorice and elegant spicy notes, it stands for the authenticity of the Barolo region. A wine that will delight discerning connoisseurs.

4. Barolo Lo Zoccolaio DOCG - Lo Zoccolaio: The Barolo from Lo Zoccolaio impresses with its deep ruby red color. It has a complex bouquet of ripe fruit, roses and spices. It is powerful and well-structured on the palate. With silky tannins and an impressively long finish.

5. Barolo DOCG - Ricossa: The Barolo from Ricossa presents itself in a noble garnet red. With seductive aromas of cherries, dried rose petals and spices. This elegant wine impresses with its balanced structure, velvety tannins and long finish.

Barolo spirits

Barolo Grappa

The elegance of Barolo in every note

Barolo Grappa is a refined spirit that has its origins in the sun-drenched vineyards of the Barolo region. It takes the noble characteristics of the famous Barolo wine and transforms them into a special pleasure experience. Immerse yourself in the world of Barolo grappa and discover how distillation captures the essence of Nebbiolo grapes in a fascinating way.

Origin and tradition

Barolo grappa is made from the pomace of Nebbiolo grapes, which are used for the production of Barolo wine. The tradition of grappa production in the Barolo region goes back a long way and is closely linked to wine production. The careful selection of the pomace and the artful distillation make Barolo grappa a unique expression of local craftsmanship and tradition.

Aromatic diversity

The Nebbiolo marc, which is used for the production of Barolo grappa, carries the characteristic aromas and nuances of Barolo wine. The result is a grappa with a fascinating aromatic diversity, ranging from floral notes to fruity nuances and subtle spicy aromas. The elegance and depth that characterize Barolo are reflected in every note of this fine grappa.

Tasting experience

Tasting Barolo grappa reveals a harmonious balance between power and finesse on the palate. The smooth texture and complex taste make this spirit an ideal digestif. It goes perfectly with a delicious dinner or a relaxing moment of pleasure. The journey through the aromas of Nebbiolo marc is also a journey through the vineyards and hills of the Barolo region.

Buy Barolo online at VINELLO

Are you looking for a delicacy for your wine collection or simply want to treat yourself? Then look no further than Italy's flagship wine, Barolo. Your wine mail order company Vinello offers you a wide selection of different Barolo wines. We also guarantee: secure shopping and many payment options.