Viniou Reviews
Fontanafredda Barolo 2016 is a captivating wine from the Piedmont region of Italy, particularly known for its powerful and full-bodied red wines. This Barolo, made from 100% Nebbiolo grapes, boasts an intense ruby-red colour that evolves into garnet hues as it ages. The 2016 vintage is considered excellent, offering complexity and a strong structure. The terroir of Barolo is remarkable, with its calcareous clay soils influenced by the unique microclimates and altitudes of the region. The Nebbiolo grapes experienced a long maceration period, followed by ageing in oak barrels which imparts depth and refined tannins to the wine.
Piedmont, located in the northwest of Italy, is a prestigious wine region with a rich history dating back to Roman times. The region benefits from a continental climate, where hot summers and cold winters create the perfect environment for grape growing. The unique soil composition of limestone and clay contributes to the complexity and elegance of wines like Barolo. This area's reputation for quality winemaking is renowned worldwide, with Barolo often referred to as the "King of Wines" due to its distinguished profile.
When it comes to food pairing, Barolo's bold tannins and rich flavours are best complemented by hearty and flavourful dishes. Traditional Piedmontese dishes such as braised beef (Brasato al Barolo) and truffle risotto make excellent accompaniments. Additionally, aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano or rich, gamey meats would enhance the wine's complex profile.
For optimal enjoyment, decant this Barolo at least one hour before serving to allow its flavours to fully express themselves. Serve it at a temperature of around 16-18°C. This wine will continue to develop with age, so cellaring it for a few more years would only add to its complexity and allure.
