Barolo
Known as the king of wines, it is potent, complex and long-lived wine made from the Nebbiolo grape. The appellation is spread over 2,134 ha in total and consists of several villages and communes. divided into a multitude of individual vineyard sites and crus similar to Burgundy, with many producers owning small plots of the individual crus.
The main winemaking approach is a long maceration of Nebbiolo grapes - between 30 to 60 days -followed by a long maturation period in large old casks for a minimum of 38 months. And many producers often choose to age their wines even longer than this because of the intense fruit and powerful tannins of their grapes.
The combination of microclimate, altitude, soil, exposition and each winemaker’s individual touch is what makes every Barolo different. And in the main communes such as Serralunga, Castiglione Falletto, and La Morra, their Barolos are renowned for certain characteristics unique to each of them, due to their differing soils and exposition.
Barolo
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Wine Advocate (97)
There is slightly more structure to the 2015 Barolo Ginestra Casa Maté than to the Gavarini Chiniera of the same vintage, and the only differences here are the soils and that this fruit is harvested about ten days later. It's a pretty fascinating demonstration of the power of the single vineyard. The Gavarini Chiniera parcel offers slightly sandier soils, whereas this site is composed of more clay. In rainy years, the Gavarini Chiniera vineyard drains more effectively, whereas the Ginestra's soil retains more moisture in the hot and dry vintages. As a result, in vintages such as this one, Ginestra shows a more compact nature and, in general, provides more impact and more structure. This is a very robust expression, extremely linear and tight. The Ginestra Casa Maté narrowly wins this round. It's another beautiful Barolo.د.إ1,645.00 -
Vinous (97)
Ample and creamy on the palate, with tremendous depth, the 2016 Barolo Ginestra Casa Matè is super impressive, even in the early going. Next to the Gavarini Chiniera, the Ginestra Casa Matè is a Barolo of textural resonance and volume. Black cherry, plum and a range of balsamic notes infuse the 2016 with tons of character. The is one of the real standouts of the year.د.إ1,740.00 -
James Suckling (98)
This is really transparent with sweet strawberries, flowers and orange peel, as well as some conifer and pine-nut undertones. Full-bodied and layered with intense young tannins, intertwined with bright fruit. Great finish. This is really something else. Needs time to soften, of course. Try after 2025.د.إ1,220.00 -
Vinous (96)
The flagship 2007 Barolo Riserva Runcot is remarkably fresh for the year. Sweet, perfumed and sensual, the 2007 wraps around the palate with stunning depth and sheer radiance. Layers of expressive red fruit, flowers, spices and mint all come to life as the wine opens up. The Runcot captures the best qualities of the year; deep fruit, expressive aromatics and wonderful nuance, all in a soft, supple wine that should enjoy a long drinking window. I can't wait to see how the 2007 ages. Today it is seamless and utterly impeccable from the very first taste. This is without question one of the great 2007s. Grasso gave the 2007 40 days on the skins, followed by 45 months in 100% new French oak barrels, all of which the wine handles with grace to burn.د.إ4,415.00 -
Wine Advocate (97)
The 2008 Barolo Riserva Rüncot is an exceptional wine that is only made in the best years. It was produced in 2008, 2010 and 2013. The wine undergoes a 40-day maceration time with four years in oak and one more year of bottle aging. The results are sublime and generous. Riserva Rüncot opens to a beautifully tempered and expressive bouquet that exhibits elements of wild berry, forest floor, candied fruit, licorice, cola and dried ginger. The balsamic signature is particularly beautiful and elegant. Smooth and silky tannins denote the mouthfeel and carry the wine forward over the palate. This is one of the top releases from Piedmont this year.د.إ3,095.00 -
James Suckling (97)
Lots of plums, ripe strawberries, walnuts, smoke and tar on the nose, together with some black mushrooms, following through to a full body with powerful yet polished tannins and a long, long finish. Drinkable now, but better in three or four years.د.إ1,600.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (100)
The 2016 Barolo Riserva Rüncot is just as profound today as it has always been. Dark and almost somber in bearing, the 2016 hits the palate with waves of dark-toned fruit, spice, new leather, graphite and dried herbs. The purity of the flavors is just mind-blowing. This is one of the all-time great wines at Elio Grasso.د.إ2,560.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (100)
The 2016 Barolo Riserva Rüncot is just as profound today as it has always been. Dark and almost somber in bearing, the 2016 hits the palate with waves of dark-toned fruit, spice, new leather, graphite and dried herbs. The purity of the flavors is just mind-blowing. This is one of the all-time great wines at Elio Grasso.د.إ4,730.00 -
Vinous (94)
Elio Sandri's 2017 Barolo Perno is fabulous. More than anything else, I am struck by the wine's freshness and energy, both of which are hard to find in this torrid, dry year. Crushed flowers, raspberry, mint, cinnamon and blood orange lend notable energy and tension throughout. This is an absolutely stunning wine by any measure. The only thing it needs is time. Production is down about 20% because of severe selection.د.إ1,070.00 -
Indulge in the exquisite Elio Sandri Barolo Perno Riserva 2015, originating from the idyllic Piedmont region of northern Italy. Crafted from the noble Nebbiolo grape in the renowned Perno vineyard by acclaimed winemaker Elio Sandri, this Barolo exemplifies Sandri's commitment to traditional wine-making practices.
Handpicked grapes undergo fermentation in large cement tanks before maturing in Slavonian oak barrels for a minimum of 36 months. The result is an arresting bouquet full of red fruit, floral notes, and earthy undertones, paired with vibrant acidity and robust tannins for a remarkable finish.
Graced with complexity, structure, and remarkable ageing potential, the Elio Sandri Barolo Perno Riserva 2015 achieves a seamless balance between power and elegance, holding true to the grandeur of genuine Barolo wines. A perfect choice for discerning enophiles seeking the quintessential expression of Barolo's distinguished terroir.
د.إ2,590.00 -
Discover the stunning Elio Sandri Barolo Perno Riserva 2016. Produced in the esteemed Piedmont region of Italy, this majestic wine is the creation of wine master Elio Sandri, whose passion, rigorous selection of vines, and respect for tradition have resulted in an exquisite product. This Barolo highlights the Nebbiolo grape variety's splendour, grown in marl-rich soils, patiently aged for thirty-six months in Slavonian oak barrels. The result is an outstanding complexity of flavour, exhibiting notes of forest berries, leather, licorice and truffle. The 2016 vintage expresses noteworthy intensity and elegance. It embodies opulence, boldly displaying a deep ruby red hue, rich tannins, and impressively balanced acidity. The finish is unforgettably long, leaving a warm, pleasing aftertaste. Experience the artistry and mastery encapsulated in the Elio Sandri Barolo Perno Riserva 2016, a timeless testament to the grandeur of Italian viticulture. Drink now for its youthful vigour or cellar for later appreciation.
د.إ2,815.00 -
(6x75cl) 2013Wine Enthusiast (97)
Forest floor, dried rose petal, new leather, star anise and menthol aromas align with a potpourri of dark cooking spice. The full-bodied yet linear palate delivers juicy Marasca cherry, crushed strawberry, licorice and aromatic herb set against taut, elegant tannins. Vibrant acidity lends balance, tension and an ageworthy structure. Drink 2023–2038.د.إ2,060.00 -
Wine Enthusiast (97)
Enticing scents of rose, iris, perfumed berry and an earthy whiff of truffle shape the fragrant nose on this dazzling wine. The delicious, full-bodied palate boasts structure and a weightless elegance, delivering juicy Marasca cherry, cherry compote, cinnamon and star anise. Taut polished tannins and fresh acidity provide balance and an elegant structure. It's already irresistible but will also age well for years. Drink 2022–2035.د.إ1,720.00 -
Wine Advocate (97+)
Of the many great contributions made by the winemaking team at Elvio Cogno, perhaps the greatest is the importance they brought to the Ravera cru of Novello. Little-known before their efforts, this vineyard has risen in high regard in recent years and continues to show impressive potential. The 2016 Barolo Ravera offers an important education in why this site deserves the spotlight. The wine shows terrific balance and depth, with rich fruit aromas framed by smoke, tar, ferrous earth and tangy licorice. The tannins are softly contoured, and the wine moves over the palate with profound length. Interestingly, two Nebbiolo clones, Lampia and Michet, are blended to make this wine. Some 15,000 bottles are hitting the market now.د.إ1,720.00 -
Vinous (93)
The 2016 Barolo Cerretta is gorgeous. Crushed red berry fruit, mint, flowers and white pepper give this aromatic, mid-weight Barolo a real feeling of finesse that also comes through in the silky red berry fruit flavors. There is just enough grip to give the mid-palate and finish energy, but overall this is a relatively approachable Barolo that will drink well with minimal cellaring.د.إ1,415.00 -
Wine Enthusiast (96)
Aromas of menthol, dark spice and rose form the enticing nose. Showing its Serralunga pedigree, the palate is youthfully austere but incredibly refined, delivering ripe raspberry, Morello cherry and licorice along with hints of coffee bean and hazelnut. A backbone of fine-grained tannins provides firm support. Drink now–2047.د.إ1,220.00 -
Wine Advocate (95)
A 9,000-bottle release, the 2017 Barolo Prapò is chiseled and whetted with a fine and carefully measured combination of fruit weight, structural power and mineral freshness. The bouquet offers cassis, wild plum, baked clay brick and camphor ash. The wine settles smoothly onto the palate and shows impressive integration with no rough edges to be found.د.إ1,410.00 -
Wine Enthusiast (99)
Enticing aromas of rose, iris, wild berry and spice appear in this gorgeous red. Combining structure and finesse, the delicious palate delivers ripe raspberry, Marasca cherry, star anise and pipe tobacco set against a backbone of firm, fine-grained tannins. Bright acidity keeps it impeccably balanced while a tangy mineral note lingers on the finish. While it's still quite young, it already shows class, pedigree and excellent aging potential. Drink 2026–2046.د.إ3,155.00 -
Vinous (91+)
Now with a few months in bottle, Alessandria's 2014 Barolo is a real powerhouse. Smoke, scorched earth, tobacco, menthol, licorice and wild cherry all convey an impression of gravitas, as this potent, muscular Barolo shows off its personality. The 2014 has quite a bit of density and richness at this level. I won't be surprised if it turns out even better than this note suggests. There is so much going on here.د.إ736.00 -
(6x75cl) 2016Wine Advocate (96)
This is the classic Barolo from Fratelli Alessandria, made with a blend of fruit from various sites in Verduno. (From the 2017 vintage forward, the new name "del Comune di Verduno" will reflect its origins.) The 2016 Barolo opens to tight elegance and a nervous quality that pits red fruit energy over lean fruit weight. The results are graceful, lithe, fragile and lasting. The wine's aromas unfolded slowly and seductively, revealing wild berry, cassis, bitter cherry, toasted almond and blue flower. This is a dreamy wine that promises more beauty as it continues its bottle evolution. An ample 20,000 bottles were produced. This is one of the very best values found anywhere in Barolo.د.إ993.00 -
Wine Enthusiast (96)
Rose, woodland berry, pine forest and culinary spice are just some of the aromas you'll find on this fragrant, fantastic red. Smooth, full-bodied and polished, the savory palate delivers ripe red cherry, crushed raspberry, star anise and white pepper alongside velvety tannins. Fresh acidity keeps bright.د.إ810.00 -
Wine Enthusiast (94)
Wild red berry, camphor, truffle and dark spice aromas form the inviting nose. Elegantly structured, the savory palate also has youthful tension, delivering ripe Morello cherry, raspberry compote, star anise and tobacco blend set against taut, fine-grained tannins. Give it a few more years to fully develop. Drink 2024–2031.د.إ810.00 -
Wine Advocate (95+)
The 2015 Barolo Gramolere (with fruit from Monforte d'Alba) opens to a medium-dark ruby color. When you put the wine to your lips, you immediately feel the power, structure and inner fiber of Nebbiolo as interpreted in this two-hectare parcel with its 30-year-old vines. In fact, this wine is defined by that immediate firmness. The aromas, however, are softer and more yielding with forest fruit, wild berry, crushed slate and blue flower. I would suggest putting this wine aside for five more years at least.د.إ1,265.00 -
Vinous (96)
The 2017 Barolo Monvigliero marries the raciness of the year with the floral lift and elegance of this great Verduno site. More than anything, the 2017 is a Barolo of pure and total sensuality. Even so, there is more than enough tannin to allow the 2017 to drink well for many years to come. It is very clearly one of the wines of the vintage. The rich, substantial finish is a thing of real beauty.د.إ1,260.00 -
Vinous (95)
Rich, bold and effusive, the 2017 Barolo San Lorenzo di Verduno shows the darker side of Nebbiolo from Verduno, as it always does. Black cherry, gravel, licorice, game, spice and cured meats are some of the many aromas and flavors that develop in the glass. Broad and ample, with tons of punch, the 2017 San Lorenzo delivers the goods, and then some.د.إ1,040.00 -
James Suckling (98)
The nose opens with a startling play between white truffles, bark and tea leaves and then crushed violets, lavender, blueberry peel, lemon rind and sour cherries. Full body, ultra-fine tannins, acidity as sharp as a razor and a long, ethereally mineral finish. The length but sheer clarity and accuracy in the delivery is remarkable. Perhaps hard to believe that this better than the 2013, but it is. Drink in 2022.د.إ4,240.00 -
Wine Advocate (100)
The golden touch, that proverbial Gaja magic, is taken to a whole new level in the 2016 Barolo Sperss. Angelo Gaja has taught his children to follow their own path, and now that the generational switch is well underway at the family estate, we can see that Gaia, Rossana and Giovanni have done him proud. Very proud. This stunning expression from the 2016 vintage (with 16,000 bottles released) represents quite a few celebratory milestones. We are now in the fifth generation to protect the Gaja legacy in an unbroken family chain that has endured since 1859. This wine is 100% Nebbiolo, and since the 2013 vintage, it is part of the Barolo DOCG appellation. Winemaking has been tweaked to embrace a more elegant, ethereal and streamlined personality, instead of the bigger extraction we saw in the past. This upgraded identity is distinctly evident in this newest release of Sperss. Starting with appearance, the wine is luminous and bright with shiny ruby and garnet gemstone. Its aromatic reach is three-dimensional with width, height and depth. Delicate berry tones cede to pressed lilac, anise, sandalwood and cardamom spice. I double decanted and left the bottle open for a few hours before my tasting. The results are tight and gentle, and the wine shows beautiful vertical lift and intensity. To achieve this much power without the excess fruit weight is really quite an accomplishment. This is the magic of Nebbiolo, and the magic of Gaja.د.إ9,385.00 -
Wine Advocate (91)
A tribute to local tradition, the 2014 Barolo Albe represents an assembly of fruit from various vineyard plots throughout the area. Winemaking is classic in approach with a 25-day maceration period and aging in large Slavonian oak casks. This vintage shows silky, fine lines and a more accessible approach for near and medium-term drinking. I would recommend a few more years of bottle aging, however, to allow the wine the time to grow in texture and mouthfeel.د.إ1,670.00 -
Wine Advocate (91)
A tribute to local tradition, the 2014 Barolo Albe represents an assembly of fruit from various vineyard plots throughout the area. Winemaking is classic in approach with a 25-day maceration period and aging in large Slavonian oak casks. This vintage shows silky, fine lines and a more accessible approach for near and medium-term drinking. I would recommend a few more years of bottle aging, however, to allow the wine the time to grow in texture and mouthfeel.د.إ785.00 -
Wine Spectator (94)
Elegant and expressive, this red evokes cherry, raspberry and floral notes, aligned to a refined structure. This is balanced and leaves an aftertaste of fruit, tobacco and iron. Best from 2023 through 2043. 3,300 cases made.د.إ1,770.00
Known as the king of wines, it is potent, complex and long-lived wine made from the Nebbiolo grape. The appellation is spread over 2,134 ha in total and consists of several villages and communes. divided into a multitude of individual vineyard sites and crus similar to Burgundy, with many producers owning small plots of the individual crus.
The main winemaking approach is a long maceration of Nebbiolo grapes - between 30 to 60 days -followed by a long maturation period in large old casks for a minimum of 38 months. And many producers often choose to age their wines even longer than this because of the intense fruit and powerful tannins of their grapes.
The combination of microclimate, altitude, soil, exposition and each winemaker’s individual touch is what makes every Barolo different. And in the main communes such as Serralunga, Castiglione Falletto, and La Morra, their Barolos are renowned for certain characteristics unique to each of them, due to their differing soils and exposition.
