Wines Barbaresco Francone - Riserva - 2019

Viniou Reviews

The Francone Barbaresco DOC Riserva 2019 is a remarkable expression of Nebbiolo, the noble grape variety of Piemonte. This Riserva, crafted in the esteemed Barbaresco appellation, showcases the results of careful grape selection and extended aging. 2019 was an excellent vintage in the region, combining elegance and concentration. The wine is composed exclusively of Nebbiolo, known for its expressive aromas and complexity. Vinified traditionally, it usually undergoes fermentation in stainless steel before being aged in large oak casks and further refined in bottle, imparting depth and structure. The result is a wine with garnet hues, offering aromas of rose, dried cherry, liquorice, and subtle balsamic notes, along with a gracefully tannic palate and a persistent finish.

Barbaresco lies in the Langhe hills of Piemonte, an area celebrated for its rolling vineyards and centuries-old winemaking tradition. The continental climate, with its warm summers and cool autumns, is ideal for the late-ripening Nebbiolo grape. Soils here are predominantly calcareous marl, giving the wines their prized elegance and aromatic lift. Barbaresco shares much heritage with nearby Barolo but tends to yield wines that are slightly more approachable in youth, though Riserva bottlings such as this have notable ageing potential. The region’s historical focus on quality and expression of terroir shines through in this impressive offering from Francone.

For food pairings, this Barbaresco Riserva calls for dishes with depth and richness to complement its structure. Traditional Piemonte recipes such as brasato al Barolo (beef braised in wine), tajarin with porcini mushrooms, or agnolotti del plin find outstanding harmony with the wine’s savoury notes. More broadly, it will pair beautifully with roasted game, lamb shanks, truffle-based dishes, or matured cheeses like Castelmagno or Parmigiano-Reggiano.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine about an hour before serving to let its bouquet unfurl. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C. This will allow its intricacies to be fully appreciated and make for a memorable tasting experience.