Wines Barolo Franco Conterno - 7 anni Riserva - 2008

Viniou Reviews

Franco Conterno’s Barolo DOC ‘Cuvée 7 anni Riserva’ 2008 is a remarkable example of a traditional Nebbiolo from the heart of Piedmont. Produced exclusively from the Nebbiolo grape, harvested from meticulously selected vineyards in the Barolo zone, this cuvée stands out, having undergone an extended ageing of seven years before release – a testament to both the house’s patience and the exceptional structure of the 2008 vintage. The wine typically exhibits a garnet core with orange reflections, offering deep, evolving aromatics of dried cherries, rose petals, tar, tobacco and earthy truffle nuances, a profile emblematic of mature Barolo. The palate is full-bodied and ethereal, with firm yet refined tannins, balanced by a persistent, complex finish.

Piedmont, nestled at the foot of the Alps in north-western Italy, enjoys a continental climate characterised by cold winters and hot summers, but thanks to the mountains and the rolling Langhe hills, diurnal temperature shifts allow slow grape maturation. The soils in Barolo are predominantly calcareous marl, lending both power and finesse to Nebbiolo wines. Barolo’s reputation as the ‘king of wines’ is well earned, with a documented history stretching back to the 19th century, producing wines of longevity, complexity and remarkable ageing potential.

For food pairing, this mature Barolo truly excels alongside rich and savoury dishes. Classic matches include braised beef such as Brasato al Barolo, game like venison or wild boar, and mushroom risotto which plays beautifully with the wine’s earthy notes. Piedmontese specialities like tajarin pasta with white truffle or agnolotti del plin are also superb choices, as are aged cheeses like Castelmagno or Parmigiano Reggiano. The wine’s structure and depth allow it to stand up to robust, flavourful plates.

To fully appreciate its nuanced bouquet and harmonious palate, decant the wine for at least two hours before serving. The optimal serving temperature is 17-18°C, allowing the intricate aromatics and subtle complexity of this mature Barolo to shine.