Wines Barolo Rocche dei Manzoni - Barolo Big d’ Big - 2013

Viniou Reviews

Rocche dei Manzoni’s Barolo DOC Cuvée Barolo Big d’ Big 2013 is an exemplary expression of Nebbiolo, the noble grape that stands at the heart of the Barolo tradition. Crafted exclusively from carefully selected Nebbiolo parcels, this cuvée showcases the precision of Rocche dei Manzoni’s winemaking, with the 2013 vintage benefitting from a cool, classic growing season that favoured complexity and refinement over sheer power. Barolo’s famed clay-limestone soils, rich in minerals, contribute structure and a haunting elegance, while traditional vinification methods—extended maceration and prolonged ageing in large oak casks—allow the wine’s natural depth and aromatics to blossom fully.

Nestled in Piedmont, in north-western Italy, the Barolo region is revered worldwide for producing some of the country’s most profound red wines. The rolling hills around the village of Barolo, dominated by marl and sandstone soils, benefit from a continental climate with significant diurnal shifts. This fosters gradual grape maturation and leads to wines of extraordinary finesse, longevity, and complexity. Barolo’s prestigious history dates back centuries, often referred to as the “wine of kings, king of wines,” and Rocche dei Manzoni is a respected producer situated at the heart of this historic terroir.

For food pairings, this Barolo is best matched with robust cuisine that can stand up to its tannic backbone and aromatic intensity. Classic Piemontese dishes such as brasato al Barolo (beef braised in Barolo), tajarin with truffle butter, or wild mushroom risotto are all exceptional choices. Roast game birds, aged Parmesan, and earthy lentil stews also complement the nuanced flavours of tar, rose, dried cherry, and liquorice that characterise this wine.

To enjoy the full range of aromas and the polished tannins that the 2013 vintage offers, decanting the wine for at least two hours before serving is recommended. Serve at a temperature of 16-18°C. This will allow the wine’s bouquet and palate to open up, revealing the intricacies of Piedmont’s most celebrated red.