This Barolo from Luigi Baudana, vintage 2017, hails from the heart of Piedmont, a region celebrated for the depth and longevity of its red wines. Barolo is traditionally crafted from Nebbiolo, one of Italy’s most noble grape varieties, renowned for producing complex, tannic red wines with considerable ageing potential. The 2017 vintage was shaped by a warm growing season, imbuing wines from this year with a more approachable fruit profile while retaining the structural backbone expected of Barolo. In the cellar, traditional methods—lengthy maceration and maturation in large wooden casks—often define the style, resulting in a wine with intricate aromatics and robust texture.
The Barolo region, nestled in the rolling hills of the Langhe within Piedmont, is blessed with calcareous marl soils and a continental climate characterised by marked diurnal temperature shifts. These conditions are ideal for Nebbiolo, allowing for a gradual ripening that fosters a balance between freshness, aromatic complexity and firm tannins. The region boasts a rich winemaking heritage, often referred to as “the king of wines and the wine of kings,” with Barolo standing as its crowning achievement thanks to its profound ability to reflect both vintage and terroir.
Pairing this style of Barolo is a joy for lovers of Northern Italian cuisine. Its structure and earthy nuances make it the perfect partner for dishes featuring truffles, wild mushrooms or slow-cooked meats such as brasato al Barolo (beef braised in Barolo). Mature cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano or Castelmagno also complement its depth and age-worthy character, while a mushroom risotto highlights its savoury side and subtle floral notes.
To fully appreciate this Barolo, serve it at around 16-18°C. Consider decanting for an hour or two to allow the bouquet to open up, releasing layers of rose petal, tar, cherry and subtle spice—hallmarks of an exceptional expression from this iconic part of Italy.
