Not many bottles get to claim to be “the King of Wines,” but Barolo has earned that prestigious title in the hearts of many. This bold red wine, made in the Piedmont area of northwestern Italy, is produced from the red grape Nebbiolo, which is known for high acid, high tannins and flavors of red fruits, dried herbs and flowers. These wines are famous for their complexity, firm texture and ability to improve with age. They often spend a long time in oak to help soften their tannins.
“The region of Barolo continues to showcase its greatness,” says Writer-at-Large Jeff Porter, Wine Enthusiast’s reviewer of wines from Italy. In recent years, he says, Barolo has produced a string of vintages that exude elegance, beauty and power to rival bottlings from Burgundy, Bordeaux and Napa. Historically, these wines were blends of grapes from 11 distinct enclaves in the region—still a popular tack—but increasingly, they include single-designation Barolos from 170 official crus or vineyard sites.
“The 2019s are powerhouses that show Nebbiolo in its ageable best,” Porter says. “Do not be afraid to try them today, so you can know how they began, but you will be well rewarded to stash a few aside.” The 2020s, meanwhile, are “like a happy puppy ready to play.” They are full of vitality from the start, he continues, but this doesn’t mean they’re unsuited for aging. “They are so delicious today that it will be hard for you to stop yourself from showing them
This Article was originally published on Wine Enthusiast
