Wines Barolo Paolo Scavino - Ravera - 2016

Viniou Reviews

The 2016 Barolo "Cuvée Ravera" from Paolo Scavino is a superb expression of Nebbiolo, the revered varietal behind Piedmont’s most illustrious reds. Crafted from the celebrated Ravera cru, this wine exemplifies the grandeur of its terroir. The 2016 vintage is especially noteworthy for its classic conditions, yielding wines of remarkable balance, structure, and age-worthy character. Ravera is distinguished within Barolo for its higher altitude and calcareous marl soils; the grapes grown here offer a notable tension between power and finesse. Ageing typically occurs in a combination of large casks and French oak barrels, allowing for the development of complex aromatics while preserving the purity of Nebbiolo’s fruit and tannic spine.

Barolo DOCG occupies the heart of the Langhe hills in Piedmont, north-western Italy, an area prized for its rolling landscapes and fog-shrouded morning vistas. The region’s continental climate, with distinct diurnal shifts, is ideal for slow, even ripening. The soils are predominantly clay and limestone, contributing both vibrant acidity and minerality to the wines. Piedmont’s long history of winemaking, coupled with a culture of meticulous vineyard management, has given rise to a unique style of Barolo—one defined by both tradition and innovation.

Pair this Barolo with robust, savoury fare to complement its depth and stucture. Classic Piedmontese dishes such as brasato al Barolo (beef braised in Barolo), tajarin al tartufo (fresh egg pasta with truffles), or agnolotti del plin are outstanding choices. Earthy mushrooms, well-aged Parmigiano Reggiano, or game meats such as venison or duck also accentuate its complexity and aromatic profile.

For tasting, decanting is recommended to allow the wine to breathe and its bouquet to blossom. Serve at 16-18°C to fully appreciate the interplay of red cherry, rose petal, liquorice, and subtle tar on both nose and palate. While approachable now, this 2016 Barolo Ravera promises further evolution over the next decade, should you wish to cellar it.