Wines Barolo Viberti Giovanni - Buon Padre - 2020

Viberti Giovanni’s Barolo Cuvée Buon Padre 2020 represents a classic interpretation of one of Italy’s most prestigious denominations. Barolo, often referred to as “the king of wines and the wine of kings”, is renowned for its refined power and unmistakable character. While specific details regarding the blend can sometimes vary, Barolo is traditionally crafted from Nebbiolo, a grape celebrated for its complex aromas and firm tannic structure. The 2020 vintage saw a balance of warmth and rainfall, promising wines of generosity and good ageing potential. Vinification for Barolo typically involves extended fermentation and significant maturation in wooden casks, which serves to soften Nebbiolo’s robust tannins and promote aromatic development, delivering notes reminiscent of tar, rose petal, cherry, and dried herbs.

The Barolo DOCG sits at the heart of Piemonte, nestled amongst rolling hills and patchwork vineyards that have been cultivated for centuries. The region benefits from a temperate continental climate with notable diurnal shifts, ensuring both ripeness and freshness in the grapes. Soils here are primarily calcareous marl, contributing to the mineral backbone and longevity of its wines. With roots extending back to the 19th century, Barolo has earned its reputation through a relentless pursuit of excellence and respect for tradition, now standing as a benchmark Italian red on the world stage.

Pairing Barolo gracefully at the table requires robust and flavourful dishes that can stand up to its structural intensity. Regional specialities such as braised beef in Barolo sauce (Brasato al Barolo), rich truffle pastas, or game dishes reveal the wine's depth. Hard, mature cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano or pecorino, as well as dishes featuring earthy mushrooms or porcini risotto, also work beautifully.

To fully appreciate this Barolo, serve it at 16-18°C, ideally after allowing the wine to breathe or decanting for an hour or two. Enjoying it in large, tulip-shaped glasses will help concentrate its complex bouquet and allow its layered profile to unfold with each sip. This wine is accessible in its youth with decanting, but will reward further cellaring for those with patience.