Viniou Reviews
The 2018 Barolo from Roberto Riga embodies the quintessential charm of Italy's celebrated Piedmont region. Barolo, often hailed as the "king of wines and wine of kings," is crafted from the Nebbiolo grape, known for its power, complexity, and ability to age gracefully. The 2018 vintage provides an excellent representation of this, presenting a wine with deep garnet hues and a complex nose featuring aromas of tar, roses, cherries, and hints of dried herbs and spices. The terroir of Barolo plays a significant role in its distinct character, with its calcareous clay soils contributing to robust tannins and vibrant acidity. The area experiences a continental climate, characterised by hot summers and cold, foggy autumns, which enhance the grape's maturation and richness in flavour.
Piedmont, nestled in the northwest of Italy, is revered for its vinous history and the majestic landscapes of the Langhe Hills. The region's viticultural heritage is deeply intertwined with its gastronomy, making it a haven for food and wine lovers. When pairing foods with this Barolo, think of robust and earthy flavours that can match the wine's full body and tannins. Traditional dishes such as white truffle risotto or braised beef (Brasato al Barolo) complement the wine perfectly, as do hearty polenta dishes or aged cheeses like Castelmagno.
For those intending to enjoy this 2018 Barolo at its best, serve it at a slightly cool room temperature, around 18-20°C. It is also advisable to decant the wine for at least an hour prior to serving, which will allow its complex aromas to unfurl and its structure to soften slightly, ensuring a more harmonious and enjoyable tasting experience. This young Barolo can be drunk now but will undoubtedly benefit from further aging, developing even more complexity and depth over the next decade.
